Ikenna Azomchine, a former ally of Peter Obi, has said he parted ways with the former Labour Party presidential candidate more than a year ago but would not adopt the approach of Kenneth Okonkwo in speaking about former associates.
Azomchine made the remark during an interview on Trust TV on Thursday, June 11, 2026, while discussing his political realignment ahead of the 2027 general election.
Reflecting on his departure from the Obedient movement, he said changing ideological and strategic priorities, rather than personal grievances, informed his decision.
“I left Peter Obi over a year ago, but I will never talk like Kenneth Okonkwo,” Azomchine said while responding to questions about criticism from former allies.
He argued that political differences should not degenerate into personal attacks, insisting that mature political engagement requires respect and restraint even after former allies go separate ways.
According to him, disagreements are inevitable in politics, but insults and threats should have no place in political discourse.
Azomchine also said he reassessed his political strategy and level of involvement before leaving the Obedient movement, stressing that political alliances evolve in response to changing national realities, especially ahead of major elections.
He noted that opposition politics in Nigeria is witnessing fresh alignments and divisions, with several political actors repositioning themselves for the 2027 elections.
Despite no longer sharing the same political views with Obi, Azomchine said he remains committed to constructive engagement and would not personally attack former allies.
