Obidient Movement Denies Atiku-Obi Coalition Rumours, Reaffirms Peter Obi’s Stand on Progressive Politics

 

The Obidient Movement has strongly dismissed widespread speculation that former presidential candidate Peter Obi has accepted to be a running mate to Alhaji Atiku Abubakar in a purported coalition for the 2027 general elections. In a detailed media statement released today, the Movement described the reports as false and potentially misleading.

“The Obidient Movement has been inundated with calls from our members within and outside the country, including other members of the public,” the statement began, “regarding a media publication claiming that our principal, Peter Obi, has been offered the running mate position to Alhaji Atiku Abubakar in the new coalition being formed ahead of 2027.”

Signed by Nana Kazaure, Director of Strategic Communication and Media for the Movement, the statement firmly asserted that “even as we know that the publication is imaginary to the author, we are tempted not to ignore it because of the possible far-reaching misconception it will have in the public space.”

While acknowledging ongoing engagements among opposition groups, the Movement clarified that “frank and cordial engagements with our partners and stakeholders towards a coalition continue amicably,” but emphasized that “the Obidient Movement would like to state emphatically that there is no truth or basis to the reports whatsoever.”

The Movement used the opportunity to reiterate Peter Obi’s motivation in engaging with any coalition effort, stressing that his interest lies in confronting the challenges facing Nigeria, not merely political ambition.

“Without any risk of contradiction, we would like to reiterate that Mr Obi has maintained that his objective and his involvement in a coalition, is to provide a united front against and to tackle issues of bad governance, corruption, hunger, poverty, poor healthcare, out of school children and the myriad of other problems daily afflicting the people of Nigeria,” the statement declared.

In a pointed remark distancing Obi from traditional power-driven politics, the group noted: “We want politics that is progressive, standing firmly with the people and serving the great people of Nigeria and not politics just for the sake of grabbing power.”

Addressing Peter Obi’s current political standing, the Obidient Movement was unequivocal: “At this point in time, Mr Peter Obi remains in the Labour Party, and if ever this changes, he will make that announcement himself.”

Kazaure concluded the statement with a call for responsible journalism and civic engagement. “The Obidient Movement would like to advise against sensationalism and speculation on these matters. At this difficult time, all Nigerians and the media, inclusive, should emphasise and contribute to building a better country.”

This clarification comes amid an atmosphere of growing political repositioning across Nigeria’s political landscape. While alliances and coalitions are being actively discussed by various political figures and parties, the Obidient Movement has made it clear that its engagement will remain rooted in principle and national interest rather than political maneuvering.

Peter Obi, who garnered significant support in the 2023 elections under the Labour Party, has not made any public declarations suggesting a shift in his political alignment.

Today’s statement reinforces the Movement’s commitment to transparency, public accountability, and people-oriented governance.