A prominent member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Kenneth Okonkwo, has claimed that former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, left the party due to his reluctance to participate in a competitive primary election.

Speaking during an interview on ARISE News on Wednesday, Okonkwo argued that Obi’s decision to exit the ADC was not influenced by ideological differences or internal party challenges, as suggested.

Instead, he maintained that the former Anambra State governor withdrew because he was unwilling to subject himself to an open and competitive selection process.

According to Okonkwo, Obi has a pattern of avoiding primary contests throughout his political career, preferring negotiated arrangements over direct competition.

He insisted that Obi’s explanation for leaving the party does not reflect the real reason, adding that the former candidate has consistently stayed away from free and fair primaries and is unlikely to change that approach going forward.