The Labour Party held its convention today and the race for the Presidential candidate of the party seems to have been nipped in the bud after veteran Economist, Pat Utomi stepped down for former Anambra state governor, Peter Obi.
Many would see this coming as the renowned Economist appear to be more concerned about floating a formidable third force to wrestle power from the All Progressives Congress and the Peoples Democratic Party.
Below are some assumptions on why Prof. Pat Utomi may have decided to step down for Peter Obi.
Popularity –
Without a doubt, Peter Obi is the most popular aspirant out of the two. Obi enjoys widespread popularity among Nigerian youths. This is evident in the recent march held by the youths to support Obi’s ambition.
Negotiation Before Cross-carpeting
Before he decided to decamp to the Labour Party, PO as he is fondly called must have tabled his requests, one of which indubitably must have been getting the party’s presidential ticket.
Clout:
For the lack of a better word to aptly describe this scenario, clout fits in. Peter Obi has the clout. He has been one of the most talked about aspirants vying for the country’s presidential seat. From the praises to the criticisms, he is always been talked about. The Labour Party needs this. Something it has lost since Olusegun Mimiko emerged as Ondo state governor under the party.
Vibrant Third Force:
Prof. Pat Utomi has mostly been on the side of the people. His agitations for the improvement of the country’s welfare may become fiercer and bolder, knowing they have a candidate who is popular with the people. Nigeria appears to have been short of a formidable opposition since the APC government took over, the Labour party may fill that gap.
South-East Presidency:
The agitations for a president of Igbo extraction have become rifer in recent times. Pat Utomi hails from Igbuzo in Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State. Peter Obi fits in the agitation for a south-eastern presidency and the Labour party has provided the platform for him.
