The Obidient movement, which played a pivotal role in the 2023 general elections, will continue to shape Nigeria’s political future as the 2027 elections approach, according to Chille Igbawua, a prominent chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Igbawua emphasized that the movement’s grassroots support, mainly composed of young Nigerians and urban professionals, remains strong, and many members are already embedded in the ADC leadership structure.
The Obidient movement gained significant momentum during the 2023 elections, initially as a grassroots support group for Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate. However, despite being labeled as a political movement of the youth and online activists, Igbawua insists that the Obidients are not just a fleeting movement but a growing force that will be key to the ADC’s success in 2027.
In a recent interview with Arise Television, Igbawua dismissed suggestions that Peter Obi, the movement’s figurehead, was disconnected from the ongoing coalition efforts. “It’s misleading to think that Peter Obi is detached from the movement,” he said. “Obi has been actively engaged in the coalition’s work, and many of his supporters occupy key positions in the ADC.”
Igbawua also highlighted that while statements made by some within the Obidient movement may not always reflect Obi’s stance, the former presidential candidate remains committed to the cause. He pointed out that Obi has participated in crucial coalition activities, including the formation of the reconstituted National Working Committee and National Executive Council (NEC).
Moreover, Igbawua dismissed claims of Obi being an outsider to the coalition, asserting that his involvement in leadership discussions and decision-making processes further solidifies his commitment. “If you’re not truly invested in a political party, why would you move your key people into its leadership? Obi is a part of this movement, and his support for the coalition is unwavering.”
On the growing divisions within the Labour Party, Igbawua acknowledged that some Obidient members may have aligned with different factions, but he assured that those loyal to Peter Obi are firmly committed to the ADC. “Obi is here with us,” he stated, adding that both the national chairman of the Labour Party and Obi himself are present at coalition meetings.
As the ADC prepares for the upcoming elections, Igbawua assured Nigerians that strategic plans were already in place to ensure the party’s victory. He revealed that the coalition was working on a robust manifesto and a comprehensive blueprint for governance. “We are not waiting until we win to start planning,” he emphasized. “By the time we take office, we’ll be ready to hit the ground running, with a clear direction for Nigeria’s future.”
The ADC’s focus, according to Igbawua, is on building a formidable political force that is capable of addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges.
