Political Tension Rises As Okonkwo Labels Post-Primary Defectors ‘Compromised

He made the remark on Saturday during an interview on Channels Television, stressing that such a move would suggest the individual has been compromised.

His comments come amid speculation that former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, may be considering a defection to the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC).

Okonkwo said, “If he leaves, will he now become a political wanderer? Anyone who fails to get the ADC presidential ticket and then moves to another platform is compromised and working for Tinubu.”

In a related development, Okonkwo also criticised members of the “City Boy Movement” (CBM), accusing them of trading their values for personal gain.

Speaking in an interview on Symfoni TV, he described supporters of President Tinubu’s re-election bid as political opportunists, alleging they benefit from what he likened to crumbs from the current administration.

He further claimed that the Igbo people have distanced themselves from the group, insisting that endorsements from some politicians do not reflect the collective position of the region.

“The Igbo have rejected them. It is an insult to Ndigbo. We wear our Isiagu because we earn our living with dignity, not by scavenging,” he said.

Okonkwo added that he would rather preserve his integrity than seek relevance through political patronage, maintaining that his success has always come from his personal skills and efforts rather than reliance on government favour.