Between Propaganda and Truth: Dissecting Arabambi’s Labour Party Remarks -By Jeff Okoroafor

In recent days, Abayomi Arabambi, the factional spokesperson of the Labour Party, has made several controversial statements regarding the party’s internal affairs, activist Aisha Yesufu, and former presidential candidate Peter Obi. His comments, which have been widely circulated in the media, contain glaring inaccuracies, deliberate distortions, and politically motivated falsehoods. A critical examination of his claims reveals a pattern of misinformation aimed at sowing discord within the Labour Party and undermining its credibility.

Arabambi has repeatedly suggested that Peter Obi is responsible for divisions within the Labour Party and that his influence has been detrimental. This assertion is not only false but also ignores the reality of Peter Obi’s role in revitalizing the party. Before Peter Obi’s presidential bid under the Labour Party in 2023, the party was relatively obscure in Nigeria’s political landscape. His candidacy brought unprecedented national attention, galvanizing millions of young Nigerians (dubbed “Obidients”) and repositioning the party as a formidable opposition force.

Abayomi Arabambi

Arabambi’s attempt to blame Peter Obi for internal crises is a deliberate misrepresentation. The Labour Party’s current challenges stem from long-standing structural weaknesses and power struggles among factions—issues that predate Peter Obi’s involvement. Rather than being the cause of disunity, Peter Obi has consistently advocated for party cohesion and democratic processes.

Arabambi also made unfounded accusations against Aisha Yesufu, a prominent socio-political activist and staunch supporter of Peter Obi. He insinuated that her activism is self-serving and disconnected from the Labour Party’s objectives. This claim is not only false but also disrespectful to one of Nigeria’s most consistent voices for good governance.

Aisha Yesufu’s advocacy predates the 2023 elections, and her alignment with Peter Obi’s movement is based on shared principles of accountability and transparency. Her criticisms of government policies—whether under the APC or PDP—have been issue-based, not partisan. Arabambi’s attempt to discredit her is a cheap shot meant to intimidate vocal supporters of the Obidient movement.

One of Arabambi’s most misleading assertions is that the Labour Party’s leadership crisis is solely the fault of external influences. In reality, the crisis stems from a failure to adhere to internal democratic processes. The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), as custodians of the party, have repeatedly called for a transparent national convention to resolve leadership disputes. Arabambi’s faction, however, has resisted such moves, preferring to maintain an illegitimate hold on the party’s structure.

Peter Obi

By blaming Peter Obi and his supporters, Arabambi is attempting to deflect from the real issue: a lack of internal democracy within the party. Peter Obi himself has called for unity and due process, making Arabambi’s accusations not only false but hypocritical.

It is no secret that Nigeria’s political landscape is highly contentious, with different factions seeking control for personal or vested interests. Arabambi’s comments align with a broader strategy to weaken the Labour Party’s progressive wing and make it susceptible to external manipulation. Some analysts suggest that his rhetoric benefits rival political interests seeking to destabilize the opposition.

If Arabambi genuinely cared about the Labour Party’s growth, he would focus on reconciliation and credible leadership rather than peddling false narratives against prominent figures like Peter Obi and Aisha Yesufu.

Aisha Yesufu

Abayomi Arabambi’s comments are not just misleading—they are a calculated attempt to distort reality for political gain. The Labour Party’s strength lies in its ability to uphold democratic values and provide a credible alternative to Nigeria’s failing establishment parties. Instead of engaging in divisive propaganda, figures like Arabambi should work towards genuine reconciliation and institutional strengthening.

Peter Obi and Aisha Yesufu remain pivotal to the movement for a new Nigeria, and no amount of misinformation can erase their contributions. The Labour Party must rise above internal sabotage and focus on its mission: serving as a true vehicle for national transformation.

Jeff Okoroafor is a social accountability advocate and a political commentator focused on governance, accountability, and social justice in West Africa.