The Obidient Movement has stated that it will back former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi only if he emerges as the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), stressing that it will not support him for a vice-presidential position under any circumstances.
The movement clarified its position in response to reports attributed to its National Coordinator, Yunusa Tanko, suggesting that the group would remain in the ADC even if Obi fails to clinch the party’s presidential ticket.
Tanko, in a statement made available to newsmen on Saturday, dismissed the report as false, describing it as “deliberate misrepresentations and malicious propaganda” aimed at confusing members of the movement and the general public.
According to him, the Obidient Movement’s stance has not changed and remains firmly anchored on Obi’s presidential ambition.
Tanko said the movement’s ideals, strength, and nationwide mobilisation are committed solely to Obi’s emergence as President of Nigeria.
“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.
He explained that the movement reserves the right to align with any political party that reflects Obi’s leadership values and reform agenda.
“The Movement can join any political party of its choice that aligned with the person, principles, and leadership vision of Mr Peter Obi,” Tanko said.
The Obidient Movement categorically ruled out supporting Obi as a running mate to any presidential candidate, stressing that such speculation does not reflect its mission.
“Let it be stated clearly and without ambiguity: The Obidient Movement is not mobilised to support Peter Obi as a vice-presidential candidate to anyone. Our support is exclusively for his emergence as President of Nigeria,” the statement added.
Tanko noted that the movement is currently backing Obi’s presidential aspiration within the ADC, but emphasised that its continued participation would depend on the integrity of the party’s primary process.
“At present, we are supporting him within the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in the contest for its presidential candidacy,” he said.
The movement, however, warned that it would not hesitate to review its position if the process is flawed.
“Should the process be transparent, credible, and fair, the Obidient Movement will abide by its outcome. However, should the process be compromised, the Movement will take a united, lawful, and democratic decision consistent with its core principles,” Tanko stated.
The clarification appears to be aimed at calming rising speculation over possible political deals ahead of the 2027 general elections, as well as reaffirming the Obidient Movement’s unwavering loyalty to Peter Obi’s presidential ambition.
Full press release:
03/01/2026
*Obidient Movement Press Statement*
*THE PETER OBI PRESIDENCY: A JOINT PROJECT OF ALL NIGERIANS*
Our attention has been drawn to deliberate misrepresentations and malicious propaganda arising from a recent interview granted by Dr Tanko Yunusa, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement. These distortions necessitate a clear and authoritative restatement of our position.
The Obidient Movement is an organic, nationwide, and values-driven democratic movement committed to good governance, accountability, and the rule of law. Our singular purpose is the emergence of the right leadership for Nigeria through lawful and democratic means.
Accordingly, and without equivocation, the ideals, energy, and collective resolve of the Obidient Movement are unequivocally committed to the presidential aspiration of Mr Peter Obi. The Movement can join any political party of it’s choice that aligned with the person, principles, and leadership vision of Mr Peter Obi.
Our support for Mr Peter Obi is informed by our firm conviction that, among all frontline contenders for the office of President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he stands out in competence, integrity, compassion, vision, discipline, economic expertise, democratic credentials, international credibility, and a consistent record of prudent leadership.
We are equally convinced that this conviction is shared by a clear majority of Nigerians across all geo-political zones, generations, and political persuasions.
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.
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. However, should the process be compromised, the Movement will take a united, lawful, and democratic decision consistent with its core principles.
Crucially, wherever Mr Peter Obi, acting within the law and guided by conscience, chooses to pursue his presidential mandate, the Obidient Movement will move with him. Our loyalty is to his leadership vision and to Nigeria’s national redemption—not to political convenience or compromised platforms.
While remaining steadfastly committed to peaceful, democratic strategies, the Obidient Movement will never compromise its principles or its demand for credible leadership for the sake of expediency.
This Movement has endured sacrifice, resistance, and misrepresentation because of a sincere and selfless belief in a better Nigeria. We will not be distracted, intimidated, or manipulated by misinformation, media mercenaries, or partisan hatchet jobs.
Our commitment to the realization of a Peter Obi Presidency remains unshakable. We are convinced it represents the surest path to national renewal, economic recovery, and accountable governance.
As we approach a defining moment in our national journey, we call on all Nigerians to remain resolute, united, and focused. Together, we can secure the good leadership our country urgently requires.
A New Nigeria is Possible.
Signed
The Obidient Movement
About the Author
