Obidients Deny Imposing Peter Obi on ADC

The Obidient Movement has moved to quell rising anxieties within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), dismissing allegations that it is attempting to hijack the party’s structure or force Peter Obi as its automatic 2027 presidential candidate. The group’s National Coordinator, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, addressed the concerns following reports of friction between the party’s “old guard” and the wave of new “Obidient” members who have recently flooded the ADC.

Tanko, a veteran political strategist and long-time ally of the former Anambra State Governor, clarified that the movement is fundamentally democratic and has no intention of overbearing the ADC. He explained that the group’s primary activity is “marketing its product,” referring to Peter Obi, but noted that this is being done in accordance with established political norms. Tanko emphasized that members have been specifically cautioned against antagonistic behavior toward existing party members or other potential aspirants.

The controversy stems from Peter Obi’s formal defection to the ADC in late December 2025, a move that was initially seen as a strategic merger to build a formidable opposition against the ruling APC. However, the registration process was met with immediate resistance from a faction of the ADC led by Nafiu Bala Gombe, which claimed Obi’s registration at a zonal office violated the party’s constitution. This internal dispute has created a perception that the Obidient Movement is attempting to impose a “fait accompli” on the party’s leadership.

Responding to these internal rifts, Tanko argued that politics is a team sport where different sub-groups naturally promote their preferred leaders. He stressed that the influx of Obidient supporters should be viewed as a strengthening of the ADC’s electoral base rather than an invasion. “We are only selling our product so that people will really value it,” Tanko stated, maintaining that the ultimate goal is not just winning a party primary but building a platform capable of securing a national victory in 2027.

The National Coordinator also addressed the “ADC Ultimatum” rumors, asserting that while the movement is currently committed to the ADC, it remains loyal to the “rescue Nigeria” mission above any single political structure. He assured ADC loyalists that the group would respect the party’s internal processes, provided they are transparent and credible. This stance appears aimed at reassuring ADC members who fear their party’s identity might be erased by the sheer volume and fervor of the “Obidient” wave.

As the political calendar moves toward the critical mid-term period of 2026, the relationship between the ADC and the Obidient Movement remains a focal point of national interest. For Tanko, the strategy is one of “co-petition”—competing internally to sell Obi’s vision while cooperating to build the party’s overall strength. He maintained that the group remains focused on “marketing” rather than “mandating,” urging all stakeholders to prioritize the collective goal of providing a viable alternative for the Nigerian electorate.

The movement’s leadership continues to call for calm, urging supporters to focus on grassroots mobilization rather than digital confrontations with party allies. With 2027 approaching, the success of this alliance will likely depend on whether the Obidient Movement can successfully integrate into the ADC’s traditional hierarchy without causing the very division its leaders are now working to deny.