Obi backs ADC candidate in Anambra Assembly bye-election over LP’s absence

The Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR) has explained why Labour Party leader and 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is supporting the African Democratic Congress (ADC) flag bearer in Saturday’s Anambra State House of Assembly bye-election instead of a Labour Party (LP) candidate.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by its spokesman, Ibrahim Umar, POMR said the clarification became necessary to address public confusion over Obi’s choice.

According to the statement, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has yet to resolve the Labour Party’s issues in the election, leaving the party without a candidate for the poll.

POMR noted that the ADC candidate is the widow of the late LP state assembly member, Hon. Justice Azuka, who was killed by kidnappers in February 2025. On compassionate grounds, the leadership of the ADC and LP, alongside Labour lawmakers including Senator Tony Nwoye, House of Representatives member Idu Emeka, and Onitsha South Assembly members, agreed she should be supported to complete her late husband’s tenure.

The statement stressed that Obi’s support for the ADC candidate does not affect his leadership role in the Labour Party or his membership of the political coalition pushing for a “new Nigeria.”

It added that where there are no disputes over candidature, Obi remains committed to backing Labour Party aspirants, citing the forthcoming November governorship election where his preferred candidate is Chief George Moghalu of the LP.