Okonkwo, others free to leave Obidient movement

The Peter Obi Support Network has acknowledged the recent departures of key supporters, such as Doyin Okupe, Isaac Balami, and Kenneth Okonkwo, from the group.

In a press statement on Sunday, co-convener of POSN, Tochukwu Ezeoke, stated that the group respects their commitment to a better Nigeria and recognises their freedom to leave the ‘Obidient’ movement.

Ezeoke affirmed that the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, remains committed to advocating for a grassroots political party and a decisive leader with integrity.

He added that the Obidient movement anticipates further resignations from the ranks of 2023 campaign leaders. Obi’s stance is that leadership must avoid actions that could plunge the country into chaos.

The statement follows the recent departure of Okonkwo and others from the Labour Party.

The statement read in part: “Peter Obi and the Obidient Movement did not have access to unlimited state resources during the 2023 election, relying instead on the support of Nigerians at home and abroad.

“Peter Obi’s primary concern is the safety and well-being of ordinary Nigerians, even above his political aspirations. The stability of Nigeria is more important than the ambitions of any single candidate.

“In response to the 2023 election results, while some supporters called for radical action, Peter Obi wisely chose to engage with the system, thereby exposing its flaws. His message on 5 June 2024 reaffirmed the Obidient movement’s independence from the Labour Party, ensuring the continuity of our goal to transform Nigeria from a consumer to a producer nation.

“Our focus remains on ending the misgovernance of Tinubu’s APC government, as they cannot lead Nigeria to the promised land. Peter Obi is actively building strategic alliances aimed at unseating Tinubu and rebuilding Nigeria in the near future to position Nigeria among the global community of productive nations.”

The group insisted that the philosophy behind the Obidient Movement, established in 2018, guided its efforts from the Atiku/Obi campaign in 2019 through the LP/Obidient campaign in 2022-2023.

“Despite the Obi/Datti mandate being stolen in February 2023, our structure is diligently working towards future elections.

“We urge all Obidients who desire a new and better Nigeria to remain steadfast, and continue and deepen their engagements with families and neighbours on what a new Nigeria should look like and the path to achieving it.

“We expect more resignations from the ranks of 2023 campaign leaders. Nevertheless, we are confident that we speak for our partners and other groups in this struggle, assuring Nigerians that hope and engagement in the political process are vital. Our collective efforts and determination are crucial to Nigeria’s future.

“Long live the Obidient Movement. Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the group added.