In his 2024 New Year message, Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the February 25 election, called on the Federal Government to refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of states, especially when national security is not at risk. He emphasized the need for Nigerian politics to be steered away from transactional politicians and urged respect for the constitutional rights of the three arms of government.

The call from Obi comes in the wake of recent political tensions, including the intervention of national figures in the rift between the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and Rivers State Governor, Sim Fubara. Some elders in Rivers State, led by former Governor Rufus Ada-George, criticized the presidential resolution on the state's political crisis, deeming it lopsided and against the rule of law. They also expressed disapproval of the state governor's Christmas Day broadcast, viewing it as a death sentence.

Obi stressed the importance of upholding the separation of powers between the three independent arms of government and the federating units in a democratic and secular country like Nigeria. He cautioned against the undermining and weakening of national institutions and the concentration of state affairs and resources in the hands of a few individuals and private interests.

Furthermore, Obi highlighted the need to prevent the country from sliding into a one-party state and to resist undue federal intervention in the internal affairs of states, particularly when national security is not under threat. He reaffirmed the Labour Party's commitment to remaining in opposition and emphasized the collective role of Nigerians in nation-building.

In his New Year message, Obi also expressed gratitude to Nigerians, the Obidient Movement, and supporters for their dedication to true democracy.

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