Obidient Movement rejects Peter Obi 2027 presidency downgrade, insisting his leadership remains central to national unity, hope, and true electoral reform

The Sokoto chapter of the Obidient Movement has strongly rejected suggestions that Peter Obi should accept a vice-presidential offer in 2027.

Also read: Peter Obi criticises Tinubu’s Benue condolence visit

They consider such a move a betrayal of public trust and a deviation from the movement’s core ideals.

Speaking during a press conference at the state secretariat, group spokesperson Abubakar Yawale directly addressed recent comments by Kenneth Okonkwo, who claimed that only a northern candidate could defeat President Tinubu.

“Okonkwo’s statement is divisive and undemocratic,” Yawale said. “The Obidient Movement stands for unity, not tribal politics. We believe in competence, not geography.”

Yawale added that Obi’s 2023 performance, including his victories in Lagos and Abuja, shows that Nigerians are ready to vote across ethnic lines.

He stressed that the movement has a strong presence in all 23 local government areas of Sokoto, demonstrating real northern support.

Obi’s recent honorary title in Gombe, Sarkin Maskan Pantami, was also cited as evidence of growing northern respect for his leadership.

Referencing the 2023 election, the movement pointed out that Obi polled over 6.1 million votes and beat Tinubu in Lagos.

When combined with Atiku Abubakar’s results, the opposition had over 13 million votes—well above Tinubu’s 8.79 million.

“These numbers prove the people’s will,” Yawale said. “A united opposition can unseat the current administration. Obi, Atiku, Amaechi, and El-Rufai can deliver change.”

On zoning and candidacy, the Sokoto Obidients issued a warning: “We categorically reject any arrangement placing Peter Obi in a vice-presidential role. He is the symbol of a new Nigeria and must lead the presidential ticket,” the group declared.

To strengthen regional support, they launched a new initiative—North for Obi—focused on mobilising voters across the northern states.

They cited rising hardship and insecurity under the current administration as further motivation for political change.

Responding to claims that Obi cannot win in 2027, the group remained defiant. “Resigning to fate is not an option. We must demand electoral transparency and believe in the possibility of real change,” Yawale stated.

Finally, the movement urged other party leaders to avoid divisive language and work towards unity.