You’re A True Statesman, LP Chieftain Hails Obaze At 70

Director General of Labour Party (LP) Directorate of Mobilisation and Integration Marcel Ngogbehei has paid glowing tribute to the diplomat and veteran politician, Oseloka Obaze, on the occasion of his 70th birthday, describing him as a true statesman and one of the foundational pillars of the Obidient Movement.

Ngogbehei recalled Obaze’s instrumental role in bringing together the original 14 leaders of the Obidient core support group. He said this move ignited the widespread movement to galvanise support for LP presidential candidate Peter Obi in the 2023 elections.

“You brought us together not just with vision but with a rare kind of purpose and integrity,” Ngogbehei said in a birthday message made available to our reporter yesterday. “You didn’t just guide us. You led with humility and strategy,” the LP chieftain noted.
Highlighting Obaze’s behind-the-scenes contributions, Ngogbehei credited him as the mastermind of the 2022 Obidient Movement and Labour Party Leadership Summit held at the International Conference Centre in Abuja.

He stated that the summit’s budget was drawn up and approved in Obaze’s hotel room, with financial support secured through direct engagement with Labour Party leadership.

Ngogbehei also reflected on Obaze’s creative mentorship style, referencing a moment when the elder statesman used music lyrics to inspire and challenge the group to remain purpose-driven.

“You didn’t just sing that song randomly. It was your way of admonishing us—to hold onto the purity of our purpose. Today, we celebrate not just your birthday but your unwavering commitment to truth, nation-building, and selfless leadership. Your impact is eternal.”