“You Don’t Just Walk Away” — Ulasi Warns Peter Obi, Says Party Stakeholders Brought Him In

In a recent interview on Arise TV, Dan Ulasi, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), spoke on internal party dynamics, political loyalty, and past disagreements involving key national figures within the party’s structure.

During the interview, Ulasi stated, “I told Obi, ‘If you have to leave our party, inform us; there are stakeholders who brought you in.’” He made the remark while reflecting on the circumstances surrounding the exit of Peter Obi from the PDP to the Labour Party (Nigeria), a development that significantly reshaped Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2023 general elections.

Ulasi explained that Obi’s departure from the PDP at the time created dissatisfaction among some party stakeholders who felt that proper consultation and communication were not carried out before his defection. According to him, the absence of internal dialogue before such a major political move left many party members feeling sidelined.

He noted that in political structures, especially within large and established parties like the PDP, there are individuals, groups, and long-standing stakeholders who play key roles in bringing aspirants into prominence and supporting their political growth over time. He said such relationships are expected to be managed with mutual respect and clear communication.hhg

Ulasi added that while political decisions remain the constitutional right of any individual, the manner in which such decisions are communicated can significantly affect trust, loyalty, and long-term relationships within party structures. He emphasized that politics is not only about ambition but also about maintaining institutional respect.

5He further explained that political parties operate as collective systems built on negotiation, sacrifice, and shared responsibility, and therefore expect members—especially prominent figures—to engage in consultation before making major transitions.

The PDP chieftain said that the issue surrounding Obi’s exit continues to serve as a reference point in discussions about internal party discipline and cohesion, particularly at a time when Nigerian political parties are struggling with defections and shifting alliances ahead of future elections.

Ulasi maintained that political disagreements are natural in democratic systems, but insisted that managing such disagreements with transparency helps reduce bitterness and prevent long-term divisions within party structures.

He also stressed that communication breakdowns often contribute more to political tension than the decisions themselves, arguing that early engagement with stakeholders could help reduce misunderstandings during moments of political transition.