The Obidient Movement has firmly rejected claims by a splinter group that expelled former presidential candidate Peter Obi and National Coordinator Yunusa Tanko, asserting that the breakaway faction is attempting to mislead the public by operating under a confusing or misleading identity. In a statement released by Tanko, the movement emphasized that it does not recognize any parallel leadership or structure within its organization. The controversy erupted after the Obidient Movement Rebrand group held a press briefing in Abuja where they announced the expulsion of Obi and Tanko from their ranks. Tanko dismissed the move as illegitimate and warned against the activities of individuals and groups trying to operate under names that could deceive supporters.
Tanko stated that the Obidient Movement remains unified under its official leadership, which is aligned with Peter Obi, and that any attempt to create a separate or alternative structure is not legitimate. He emphasized that the movement has communicated clearly to the public, media, and supporters both in Nigeria and the diaspora that no group using a similar or disguised name represents the authentic Obidient Movement. The statement stressed that the movement’s principles, leadership, and direction are unchanged and firmly rooted in its original mission and vision.
The Rebrand group’s press briefing in Abuja sparked immediate backlash from loyal members of the Obidient Movement, who view the expulsion as an unauthorized and illegitimate act. Tanko’s response came as a direct rebuttal to the claims made by the splinter group, reinforcing the movement’s commitment to transparency and unity. He urged supporters to remain vigilant and to only engage with official channels and leaders of the Obidient Movement to avoid being misled by impostors or unauthorized factions.
This internal dispute highlights the growing challenges faced by political movements in Nigeria as they navigate leadership transitions and organizational restructuring. The Obidient Movement, which gained prominence during Peter Obi’s 2023 presidential campaign, has been a key player in Nigeria’s political landscape, advocating for reform and accountability. As the movement seeks to maintain its relevance and cohesion, the current leadership crisis could impact its ability to mobilize support and influence public discourse.
Despite the internal rift, the Obidient Movement continues to position itself as a force for change, with Tanko reiterating that the official leadership remains committed to its core objectives. The movement’s stance sends a clear message to both supporters and critics that it will not tolerate fragmentation or attempts to undermine its integrity. Looking ahead, the Obidient Movement’s ability to resolve this leadership dispute will be crucial in determining its long-term impact on Nigeria’s political future.
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