Peter Obi’s Ally Dumps Labour Party for APC: “I Want to Come Close to the Govt”

A Shocking Shift in Nigeria’s Political Landscape

In a move that has sparked intense discussion across Nigeria’s political spectrum, Fabian Ozoigbo, a close associate of the 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate Peter Obi, has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Ozoigbo, who previously served as the Head of Logistics for the Labour Party, made the announcement during a press briefing in Awka, Anambra State, declaring his support for President Bola Tinubu and expressing his intention to actively participate in the APC’s vision leading up to the 2027 general elections.

Why He Left the Labour Party

Ozoigbo did not mince words in explaining his reasons for dumping the LP. He criticized the party’s continuous challenge of the 2023 presidential election results, as announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). According to him, the LP’s post-election behavior lacked strategic foresight and hindered constructive national engagement.

“I have decided to come close to the government that is holding this economy… My goal is to be part of a new Nigeria that is possible with positive policies that will turn the economy around,” Ozoigbo stated.

Surprised by Tinubu’s Economic Performance

Interestingly, Ozoigbo admitted that he expected Nigeria’s economy to crumble following the removal of fuel subsidies, a controversial policy implemented by the Tinubu administration. However, contrary to his expectations, he was “puzzled” by the economy’s resilience.

“As a member of the opposition, I had expected the economy to collapse irretrievably… but that the economy is still on, though with hardships, is a puzzle to me,” he said.

His remarks signal a growing sentiment among some opposition figures — that Tinubu’s policies, while harsh, may be achieving stability behind the scenes.

Opportunism or Patriotism?

Ozoigbo insists that his move to the APC is driven by patriotism and a desire to contribute to national development. However, critics argue this defection is more about political survival and access to power than ideology.

This raises an age-old Nigerian political question: Do party defections stem from genuine alignment with national interest, or are they a strategic power play as 2027 approaches?

Implications for Labour Party and 2027 Elections

• For Labour Party: Ozoigbo’s defection exposes cracks within the party’s post-election structure and highlights the need for stronger internal unity and direction.
• For APC: The ruling party benefits from the optics of gaining a former opposition leader, reinforcing its national appeal and broadening its pre-2027 coalition.
• For Peter Obi: This development may appear as a personal and political loss, but it could also serve to purge his movement of individuals not fully committed to its ideals.

Final Thoughts

Fabian Ozoigbo’s defection to the APC is not just a political footnote — it’s a reflection of the realities of Nigerian politics, where access to the seat of power often outweighs ideological consistency. As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 elections, expect more reshuffling, realignments, and strategic positioning among political figures.

One thing is clear: the race to 2027 has officially begun.