Peter Obi
Olamilekan Abayomi
The Obidient Movement has asked its members across Nigeria and the diaspora to remain calm and ignore “speculative reports” as Peter Obi holds what it calls “extensive, high-level consultations” to decide his political path for the 2027 elections. The statement was issued Saturday, May 2, 2026, by the Movement’s Interim National Coordinator, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, and posted on his X handle.
According to Tanko, Obi is currently meeting with “key stakeholders, political allies, and aligned movements” to determine “the most strategic and effective path forward in the best interest of the Nigerian people”. The consultations, he said, are deliberate and guided by the objective of “securing a future that works for all Nigerians”. The Movement stressed that Obi remains fully committed to its ideals and will formally address members and the public “in due course” to clarify the direction ahead.
The appeal for calm comes amid mounting reports of realignment in the opposition space. Several outlets claim Obi is close to leaving the African Democratic Congress, the coalition platform he joined months ago, following unresolved leadership disputes and zoning concerns. A source quoted by _Legit.ng_ said “the structure appears tilted towards a particular aspirant and the zoning arrangement is unfavourable to the South”. Habibu Mohammed of the Kwankwasiyya movement also alleged Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso would defect from ADC to the Nigeria Democratic Congress next week.
Tanko did not confirm or deny any planned defection, but acknowledged “growing concerns and widespread reports” about Obi’s engagements with current and potential partners. He warned supporters not to be swayed by speculation, noting that such reports could create unnecessary anxiety. “We urge all Obidients to remain calm, patient, and focused,” the statement read.
The consultations follow a series of coalition meetings, including an all-opposition summit in Ibadan in April. Obi has reportedly not attended subsequent ADC meetings since then, fueling talk of a new platform. Meanwhile, Buba Galadima of the NNPP told an Obi-Kwankwaso stakeholders’ meeting on Saturday that both leaders would announce their new platform by Monday, May 5.
The Movement framed the talks as part of building a “New Nigeria” anchored on reform, accountability, and citizen participation. It said decisions will reflect its values of integrity and long-term national interest. “Our strength lies in our unity and focus,” the statement added.
For now, no official declaration has been made. The Obidient Movement insists Obi’s next move will be communicated directly by him, not through rumors. With the PDP also reaching out to Obi and Atiku for 2027 talks, and the ADC facing legal hurdles, the next few days are expected to clarify whether Obi stays in the ADC, returns to Labour Party, or leads a new alliance.
