by Nigerian News24 Correspondents
The Sokoto State chapter of the Obidient Movement has strongly criticized Labour Party chieftain Kenneth Okonkwo for his recent remarks suggesting that only a northern candidate can defeat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.
At a press briefing held Thursday at the Labour Party Secretariat in Sokoto, the group’s spokesperson, Abubakar Yawale, described Okonkwo’s comments as “anti-democratic, divisive, and strategically flawed.”
Yawale argued that such statements undermine both the credibility and the nationwide reach of the Obidient Movement, which remains firmly behind former presidential candidate Peter Obi.
“The idea that a southeastern candidate is unelectable is a dangerous myth,” Yawale said. “Peter Obi’s popularity spans all regions, and his rising support in the North is evident.”
As evidence, the group cited Obi’s recent traditional title of Sarkin Maskan Pantami (Chief of Shelter and Peace), conferred by the District Head of Pantami in Gombe State. They hailed the honor as a sign of Obi’s growing grassroots acceptance in northern Nigeria, driven by his humanitarian record and reputation for ethical leadership.
Yawale emphasized that the Obidient Movement in Sokoto has built a strong, on-the-ground network across all 23 local government areas, engaging farmers, traders, youth, and artisans.
“This isn’t just a social media movement,” he said. “It’s a community-by-community, ward-by-ward campaign.”
On electoral performance, the group highlighted the 2023 presidential election, where Obi secured 6.1 million votes, defeated Tinubu in Lagos, and won 25.4% of the national vote. When combined with Atiku Abubakar’s 29.07%, the opposition bloc garnered over 13 million votes—surpassing Tinubu’s 8.79 million.
Yawale argued that growing dissatisfaction in the North over economic hardship and insecurity has made the region more receptive to Obi’s message of reform and justice.
He also praised the emerging opposition coalition that includes Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rotimi Amaechi under the ADC-led platform, calling Obi “a unifying figure with unmatched cross-regional appeal.”
Rejecting Okonkwo’s claim that fielding a southern candidate would guarantee Tinubu’s re-election, Yawale countered:
“Peter Obi’s victory in Lagos and his national appeal disprove that narrative. The 2027 presidency—morally and constitutionally—belongs to the South. Divisive thinking only weakens the opposition and empowers the incumbent.”
He dismissed fears in some quarters that Obi’s 2027 bid might be thwarted through electoral malpractice.
“We reject defeatism,” Yawale said. “Democracy demands we fight for electoral integrity—not accept rigging as a given.”
Sending a clear message to Peter Obi, Yawale declared: “You are our candidate—north, south, east, and west. We will not accept any move to relegate you to a vice-presidential role.”
The movement also urged northern leaders and civil society groups to launch a ‘North for Obi’ campaign to further consolidate support based on shared values of equity, security, and economic justice.
In conclusion, Yawale reaffirmed the group’s commitment to a merit-based Nigeria:
“Peter Obi represents that vision. We call on Mr. Okonkwo to retract his divisive remarks and prioritize unity over fear. The path to 2027 victory lies not in regional politics, but in national transformation.”