The Obidient Movement has declared that its leader and 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, is not desperate to become Nigeria’s president in 2027.
The group dismissed as “bad faith” the ultimatum issued by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which directed members of the opposition coalition to resign from their respective political parties and formally join the ADC.
National Coordinator of the Movement, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, stated this in Abuja on Friday while reacting to comments made by the ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi.
Abdullahi had told reporters that the directive was agreed upon at an ADC caucus meeting attended by leading members of the opposition coalition. While no timeline was given for compliance, he insisted that all members must align with the resolution.
Responding, Yunusa said the directive was unnecessary and contrary to earlier agreements within the coalition.
“Our attention has been drawn to the recent statement released by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) concerning the resolutions of the Coalition and our role within it.
“We wish to restate our position clearly. While we remain fully committed to the vision of the Coalition and acknowledge the adoption of the ADC as the coalition platform, it is on record that His Excellency Mr. Peter Obi aligned with the coalition’s position after the Anambra State Governorship Election, extending to the 2027 General Elections.
“This adoption and pronouncement were made publicly by the party. We are therefore concerned as to why the resolution is now being altered midway into the agreement.”
He explained that Obi, as a leader with a broad national constituency, has always prioritized wide consultations before making major political decisions.
“As the Obidient Movement, being part of the main consulting bloc, we are particularly concerned about how the party intends to zone its presidential ticket. Considering that the presidency is currently held by the South, issues of equity and fairness must guide such decisions if the party truly aims to secure victory in the 2027 elections.
“We are equally interested in how the party zones its principal offices within the coalition, as this will ensure justice, fairness, and inclusivity — factors that will enable us to mobilize effectively across the country.”
On Obi’s political ambition, Yunusa stressed that his mission goes beyond personal ambition.
“It must be emphasized that H.E. Peter Obi is not desperate to be President of Nigeria. His ultimate mission is to see Nigeria work — to lift people out of poverty, to improve the economy, education, healthcare, and security.
“These were the reasons he joined the coalition in the first place, as they align with the core values of the Obidient Movement, which is committed to good governance.”
Leave a Comment