If government wants progress, it will support strong opposition – Peter Obi questions INEC, others

A former presidential candidate of the Labour Party and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Peter Obi, has criticized the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the party’s ongoing leadership crisis, saying the commission was being used by he government to frustrate the opposition.

Obi said any government that wants progress, will support strong opposition, questioning why individuals who cried over the same undemocratic approach will continue to use INEC to frustrate the opposition.

Speaking during an interview on Arise TV’s Prime Time, Obi raised concerns over INEC’s decision to withdraw recognition from the party leadership led by David Mark, suggesting that the move may not be entirely independent.

“Somebody is pushing this,” he said, hinting at possible political interference.

INEC had maintained that its action was based on legal considerations, noting that the matter is subject to judicial determination.

However, Obi questioned the broader implications of the decision.

“They said they were obeying a court. Well, that is one of the things that will be decided by a court,” he added.

The former Anambra State governor also defended the decision to proceed with the planned national convention despite regulatory concerns and internal disputes.

“We believe that what they are doing is wrong,” he said.

The ADC has been embroiled in a protracted leadership tussle, with rival factions laying claim to control of the party structure, raising concerns about internal cohesion.

When asked whether he would attend the convention scheduled for April 14, Obi signalled support for the process and confidence in its outcome.

“I will definitely be there,” he stated.

On the possibility of INEC refusing to recognise the outcome, Obi maintained a cautious stance, suggesting the matter could ultimately be resolved judicially.

“Let’s see what happens,” he said.

Drawing a historical parallel, he referenced late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, who intervened positively during a political crisis in APGA, even though the issue was before a court of law, stressing the importance of a strong opposition in a functioning democracy.

“If a government wants progress, it will support strong opposition,” he noted.

The development highlights deepening uncertainty within the ADC as legal disputes and political manoeuvres continue to shape the party’s trajectory ahead of future elections.

If government wants progress, it will support strong opposition – Peter Obi questions INEC, others