Ogochukwu Onyema, a former Deputy President-General of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo and prominent figure in the Labour Party (LP) in Enugu State, has addressed the challenges facing the party following the 2023 general elections. In a recent interview, he provided insight into his motivations for joining the LP and shared his views on the current political landscape, including the wave of defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Onyema emphasized that his decision to join the Labour Party was rooted in his personal values and desire to genuinely serve the people rather than pursue political office for its own sake. He expressed disappointment over the mass exodus of elected officials from the LP, suggesting that their focus had shifted towards self-interest and financial incentives instead of fulfilling their duties to the citizens who elected them. His loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) spanned over two decades, during which he actively contributed to its funding and activities. However, the outcomes of the recent elections prompted him to leave the PDP and find a new political home where he believed he could make a more significant impact.
Despite his concerns about the current crisis within the Labour Party, Onyema remains optimistic about its future. He contended that the true backbone of the party, represented by the “Obidients” — a movement supporting Peter Obi — still holds firm. He believes that the ongoing leadership challenges within the party do not reflect broader membership issues and is confident that these internal disputes can be resolved in time for the next election cycle in 2027.
Onyema further reflected on the troubling trend of politicians switching parties, asserting that this behavior detracts from the democratic process and signifies a lack of true ideological commitment in the country’s political landscape. He lamented the implications of such moves, suggesting that if elected officials had remained with their original parties, it would have fostered more robust political discourse and accountability.
Regarding the socio-economic and security challenges facing Nigeria, his candid assessment highlighted frustrations over governance, economic hardship, and the ineffectiveness of current security strategies. He pointed to the alarming state of insecurity, expressing concern that citizens are increasingly fearful for their safety, negatively impacting their quality of life.
While Onyema acknowledged the deterioration of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo, he expressed hope for its revival, calling for unity among Igbo leaders and a recommitment to the group’s original purpose as a socio-cultural entity rather than a political tool. He urged support for Ohanaeze, arguing that a reinvigoration of its role could benefit the Igbo people and foster greater solidarity.
In conclusion, Ogochukwu Onyema’s insights reveal a commitment to progressive political change within Nigeria and a belief in the capacity for renewal within the Labour Party, despite its current challenges. His emphasis on democratic accountability, the need for genuine leadership, and the importance of maintaining cultural unity reflects a hopeful vision for the future of politics in the Southeast, encouraging engagement and active participation from the people.