2027 Presidency: Obidient Movement Insists Support Is Only for Peter Obi as ADC Presidential Candidate
The Obidient Movement has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, stating that it will only support him as a presidential candidate within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections. The movement made it clear that it is not prepared to support Obi as a vice-presidential candidate to anyone, nor will it compromise on what it describes as its core principles and objectives.
This clarification followed reports attributed to the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, suggesting that the group would remain within the ADC even if Peter Obi failed to secure the party’s presidential ticket. The report sparked intense debate and speculation across social media and political circles, with critics and supporters interpreting it as a sign of possible flexibility or retreat by the movement.
In response, Tanko issued a strongly worded statement dismissing the report as “deliberate misrepresentations and malicious propaganda” aimed at misleading the public and weakening the movement’s political stance. According to him, the Obidient Movement’s position has not changed and remains firmly aligned with Peter Obi’s presidential aspiration.
“Without equivocation, the ideals, energy, and collective resolve of the Obidient Movement are unequivocally committed to the presidential aspiration of Mr Peter Obi,” the statement read. Tanko emphasized that the movement is not bound to any political party by default but follows Obi based on shared principles, leadership values, and vision for Nigeria.
The statement further explained that the Obidient Movement reserves the right to align with any political platform that reflects Peter Obi’s values and provides a credible pathway for his presidential ambition. While the movement is currently supporting Obi within the ADC, it stressed that its loyalty is to the candidate and his reform agenda, not necessarily to the party structure itself.
“Let it be stated clearly and without ambiguity: The Obidient Movement is not mobilised to support Mr Peter Obi as a vice-presidential candidate to anyone. Our support is exclusively for his emergence as President of Nigeria,” the statement added.
On the issue of internal party processes, the movement stated that it would respect the outcome of the ADC presidential primary, provided the process is transparent, credible, and fair. However, it warned that any form of manipulation or compromise of democratic procedures would compel the movement to reassess its position.
“At present, we are supporting him within the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the contest for its presidential candidacy. Should the process be transparent, credible, and fair, the Obidient Movement will abide by its outcome,” Tanko said. “However, should the process be compromised, the Movement will take a united, lawful, and democratic decision consistent with its core principles.”
The declaration has generated mixed reactions among political observers and Nigerians online. Supporters argue that the movement’s firm stance reflects strong grassroots loyalty and clarity of purpose, while critics contend that such rigidity could alienate other stakeholders within the ADC and weaken broader coalition-building efforts ahead of 2027.
Some commentators have also questioned whether Peter Obi’s popularity on social media can translate into sufficient influence among party delegates who ultimately decide presidential tickets. Others maintain that the Obidient Movement’s growing visibility and mobilisation capacity could significantly reshape opposition politics if effectively organised.
As preparations for the 2027 elections gradually intensify, the Obidient Movement’s declaration underscores the high-stakes negotiations and ideological battles already unfolding within Nigeria’s opposition space. Whether this uncompromising position strengthens Peter Obi’s chances or complicates alliances within the ADC remains a key question as the political landscape continues to evolve.