Nigerian political figure Doyin Okupe has revealed that he had communicated to Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate for 2023, that he would not accept a position in Obi’s administration if he were to win the election. Instead, Okupe expressed his willingness to act as an elder statesman and a private advisor to the President.
In a statement issued on Monday in Lagos, Okupe asserted that Obi is available to confirm or dispute his claims regarding their conversation.
The former Director-General of the Peter Obi Presidential Campaign Organisation responded to criticisms he faced for supporting President Bola Tinubu’s economic recovery initiatives, labeling his detractors as uninformed individuals. He described them as political neophytes who resort to insults against those with greater experience and knowledge.
Okupe emphasized that he has witnessed enough political dynamics in Nigeria to not be limited by narrow perspectives. He stated, “My support for Peter Obi was driven by a sense of patriotism and a deep commitment to national interests, not due to any uncertainty about my place in Nigerian politics. I made it clear to Peter Obi that I would not seek a role in his government if he succeeded. Obi is here to confirm this; if it’s untrue, I invite him to publicly declare that I am lying.”
He further elaborated, “To advance our country, we must unite and collaborate. Failing to do so would be a disservice to future generations and exacerbate the struggles of our populace.”
Okupe emphasized that the Nigerian project is a collective responsibility, transcending political affiliations and leaders in power. He urged fellow citizens to exercise patriotism by supporting whoever is divinely appointed to lead.
“Post-elections, it is crucial to set aside our differences, engage in constructive criticism of the government, and patiently await the next electoral cycle. This is the essence of a true and lasting democracy,” he added.
He expressed disappointment that many younger Nigerians, who often criticize elders, lack a comprehensive understanding of the nation’s complexities. Okupe lamented that his critics failed to acknowledge the personal risks he undertook in backing Obi, which was based on his genuine conviction and voluntary choice.
