We must maintain level of respect when we disagree, Peter Obi to Okonkwo

The former Presidential Candidate of Labour Party, Peter Obi has said that disagreements and differing opinions are natural part of any group, society, or movement, but its essential to maintain a level of respect and decorum even when disagree.

Peter Obi took to his social media platforms on Sunday to reacts to the Spokesman for the Party’s Presidential campaign council, Barrister Kenneth Okonkwo who decided to leave the party after the former Presidential candidate failed to solve the party’s internal crisis.

Okonkwo said in a statement on Saturday that he no longer have the confidence that Peter Obi has what it takes to build a party that can win these kakistocrats, kleptocrats, and above all, that Obi has proved that even if the people vote for him, he doesn’t have what it takes to secure the mandate.

Responding to this development, Peter Obi said having differing views does not make someone an enemy, but it’s crucial to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to personal attacks or negative remarks.

He added that personally, he does not want to work with anyone who always agrees with him, saying as a leader, learning and listening are critical components of leadership. “I want to listen to those who have different opinions and try to convince them otherwise or take their advice if it is better”.
Despite the attack, the former Presidential Candidate declared that Barrister Okonkwo remains his beloved brother and a trusted ally while sternly cautioned against referring to him as a mole or making any negative remarks.

He said, “Barr. Kenneth Okonkwo has stood by me through thick and thin, and his loyalty and commitment cannot be overstated or diminished. Disagreements, differing opinion are a natural part of group, movement, and it is essential to maintain a level of respect and decorum even when we disagree.

“Having differing views does not make someone an enemy, and it is crucial to engage in constructive dialogue rather than resorting to personal attacks or negative remarks.
“In fact, to me personally, I don’t want to work with anyone who always agrees with me, because as a leader, learning and listening are critical components of leadership. I want to listen to those who have different opinions and try to convince them otherwise or take their advice if it is better”, Obi said.

He urged all believers of a New Nigeria to remain strong, resilient, and focused, and to refrain from discouragement or negative remarks towards Barrister Kenneth Okonkwo or anyone who leaves or disagrees with their views, strategies or tactics.

“My message is clear and simple: unity, respect, and civility must prevail, even in the face of disagreement and variance”, the former Anambra State Governor concluded.