Search for Peter Obi’s running mate ends as Okupe withdraws as VP placeholder

The search for the running mate of Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) has come to an end with the withdrawal of Doyin Okupe, a former presidential aide, from the position.

Mr Okupe was nominated to man the position while the opposition party concludes its search for who will deputise the former Anambra governor for next year’s presidential election.

While the search was on, the LP and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) began talks to form alliance but it soon collapsed after Rabiu Kwankwaso, candidate of the latter and Mr Obi refused to step down for each other.

Announcing his withdrawal Thursday afternoon on Twitter, Mr Okupe said he has submitted a letter to that effect to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

He said the national chairman of LP, Julius Abure, will announce his replacement shortly.

“This afternoon I submitted my withdrawal letter from the position of the Vice Presidential candidate of the Labour Party to INEC,” he tweeted. “A replacement will be announced by d national chairman of d party shortly.I feel greatly blessed to hv been part of the foundation of success 4 the LP.”