The Obidient Movement has declared that it will support former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, only if he emerges as the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), insisting it will not back him for a vice-presidential position under any circumstances.
The movement clarified its stance following reports attributed to its National Coordinator, Yunusa Tanko, suggesting that the group would remain in the ADC even if Obi fails to secure the party’s presidential ticket.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Tanko dismissed the reports as false, describing them as “deliberate misrepresentations and malicious propaganda” aimed at misleading members of the movement and the general public.
According to him, the Obidient Movement’s position remains unchanged and firmly centred on Obi’s presidential ambition.
“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 said the movement’s strength, values, and nationwide mobilisation are devoted solely to Obi’s emergence as President of Nigeria.
He explained that the movement reserves the right to align with any political party that reflects Obi’s leadership philosophy and reform agenda.
“The Movement can join any political party of its choice that aligns with the person, principles, and leadership vision of Mr Peter Obi,” he said.
The Obidient Movement also 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 depends on the credibility 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.
He warned, however, that the movement would reassess its position if the process is compromised.
“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 comes amid growing political speculation ahead of the 2027 general elections and seeks to reaffirm the Obidient Movement’s unwavering loyalty to Peter Obi’s presidential ambition.