The National Coordinator of the ‘Obidient Movement’, Yunusa Tanko, has affirmed the possibility of the Labour Party’s 2023 candidate, Peter Obi, becoming Nigeria’s president in 2027.
Tanko also noted that electoral malpractice in the 2023
election denied Obi victory, adding that a “new Nigeria” is possible if the
people elect the right leaders.
He made this statement at a one-day symposium, themed
“Repositioning the Obidient Movement for Greater Impact,” organised by the
‘Obidient’ Movement and Anambra State Support Groups at the All Saints
Cathedral Auditorium in Onitsha, Anambra State, on Saturday.
Tanko said, “We are dedicated to promoting good governance
and accountability by bringing together key stakeholders to discuss Nigeria’s
future. This event underscores the movement’s commitment to unity, justice, and
equity.
“Obi has the potential to emerge as president in 2027 if we
put our acts together. We will have our agents prepared well before the 2027
general election, training and retraining them.
“A new Nigeria is possible if we start doing the right
things in electing those who lead us. We are determined to end bad governance
in Nigeria by ensuring the right people are elected. During the 2023 general
election, we were accused of lacking structure, yet Peter Obi won the election
but was denied victory due to electoral malpractice. This time, history will
not repeat itself.
“Even the North is dissatisfied with the current government.
We will advocate for electoral reform and champion it legally and physically.
We will mobilise our people on the streets, and in the courts, and present our
proposals to the National Assembly. The Obidient Movement seeks to empower Nigerian
youths, advocating for meaningful change and accountability. Our mission aligns
with the pursuit of good governance, justice, and equity.”
Tanko also urged the South East to continue supporting the
movement, calling for free and fair elections that truly represent Nigerians’
interests. He added that the appointment of the Independent National Electoral
Commission’s chairman should be free from the President’s influence to ensure
independence.
In her remarks, the event chair, Prof. Stella Okunna,
emphasised the importance of good governance and thanked the organisers for
re-energising the movement.
Okunna encouraged the team to increase visibility beyond
party lines.
Also addressing the stakeholders, the Labour Party’s 2025
governorship aspirant for Anambra, Valentine Ozigbo, highlighted the movement’s
goal of advancing Nigerians’ interests and urged members to stay united,
working towards a better Nigeria.
He said, “I have distributed a document titled ‘Ka Anambra
Chawapu’. The
document outlines policies for a better, brighter, and more
prosperous Anambra, which, when implemented, will ensure a better future for
the state.”
Ozigbo added that the people must unite to wrest power from
the incumbents.
Speaking virtually, economist Prof. Pat Utomi called for
synergy and proactiveness among members, urging collective action towards a
brighter future.