The Obidient Movement has reaffirmed that its leader and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, is not desperate to become Nigeria’s president in 2027.
The group was responding to a call by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which urged members of the opposition coalition to resign from their respective parties and join the ADC platform. The Obidients criticized the call, describing it as made in bad faith.
Speaking in Abuja on Friday, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, addressed the ADC’s position, which was earlier announced by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi.
Abdullahi had disclosed that the ADC caucus, with participation from key coalition figures, agreed that all members should exit their political parties. However, no clear deadline was given.
Reacting, Dr. Yunusa said “Our attention has been drawn to the recent statement by the ADC concerning the coalition’s resolutions and our role within it.
We wish to restate our position clearly. While we remain fully committed to the coalition’s vision and acknowledge the adoption of ADC as its platform, it is on record that Mr. Peter Obi aligned with this position following the Anambra Governorship Election and into the 2027 General Elections.
This adoption was made public by the ADC itself, so we’re concerned about the apparent shift in that agreement.”
He emphasized that Peter Obi has consistently taken a consultative approach to major political decisions due to his broad national appeal.
“As part of the main consulting bloc, we are particularly concerned about how the party plans to zone its presidential ticket. Given that the presidency is currently held by the South, any decision should be guided by equity and fairness if the coalition wants to win in 2027,” Yunusa stated.
He also raised concerns about the zoning of other key positions within the coalition, stressing the importance of justice, inclusivity, and balance to effectively mobilize nationwide support.
On Obi’s political ambition, Yunusa added “It must be emphasized that H.E. Peter Obi is not desperate to become President. His mission is to see Nigeria work — to lift people out of poverty, and improve the economy, education, healthcare, and security.
These values are what brought him into the coalition and align with the core principles of the Obidient Movement, which is committed to good governance.”
Advertisement
