Obidient Movement Denies Rift Between Peter Obi And Labour Party Leadership.
The Obidient Movement, a prominent support group for Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has firmly dismissed claims of a rift between Obi and the party’s Acting National Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman. In a statement released on Wednesday, the group described such speculations as “false and deliberately misleading,” urging the public to disregard them.
The clarification comes amid recent reports suggesting tensions between Obi and the Labour Party leadership, particularly following his involvement in a new opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) banner. The coalition, which includes political heavyweights like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, aims to challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general election. However, some factions within the Labour Party, notably the Julius Abure-led group, had issued a 48-hour ultimatum for Obi to resign, accusing him of dual loyalties.
The Obidient Movement, through its spokesperson, emphasised that Obi remains a committed member of the Labour Party. “His Excellency, Peter Obi, has not been issued any ultimatum to leave the Labour Party,” the statement read, reinforcing his dedication to the party’s values and his ongoing role within it. The group further clarified that Obi’s participation in coalition talks is a strategic move to foster unity among opposition forces, not an indication of disloyalty.
Addressing the coalition’s formation, the statement highlighted Obi’s belief in collaboration to address Nigeria’s challenges. “Peter Obi’s engagement with the ADC-led coalition is driven by a shared vision for a better Nigeria, not a departure from the Labour Party,” it noted. The group accused detractors of spreading misinformation to undermine Obi’s efforts and sow discord within the party.
The Obidient Movement also praised Senator Usman’s leadership, describing her as a unifying figure working to strengthen the Labour Party. It called on supporters to remain focused on the broader goal of transformative change, urging them to reject divisive narratives. “The Labour Party, under Senator Nenadi Usman, continues to align with Peter Obi’s vision for a new Nigeria,” the statement affirmed.
Obi himself has repeatedly clarified his stance, stating in recent interviews that he remains a proud member of the Labour Party while supporting coalition efforts for 2027. He dismissed allegations of anti-party activities, likening his coalition involvement to attending a “dinner” without abandoning his “breakfast and lunch.” His supporters, known for their passionate grassroots mobilisation, have rallied behind this message, reinforcing their commitment to his leadership.
As Nigeria’s political landscape gears up for the 2027 elections, the Obidient Movement’s statement seeks to quell internal party tensions and refocus attention on Obi’s broader mission. The group expressed confidence that unity within the Labour Party and strategic alliances with other opposition forces would pave the way for a formidable challenge against the APC.
The statement concluded with a call for calm and solidarity among supporters, urging them to continue advocating for good governance and accountability. With Obi’s popularity and the Labour Party’s growing influence, the Obidient Movement remains optimistic about shaping Nigeria’s political future.
