Presidential Campaign Council: ‘We don’t need your validation’ – OK Movement tells NDC
OK Movement Asserts Independence Amid NDC Dispute
The Obidient-Kwankwaso (OK) Movement has declared that it will continue to exercise its organizational functions without requiring the personal validation or approval of any member of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). This statement was made by National Secretary Saadatu Sani during a press briefing in Abuja on Sunday.
Sani responded to comments attributed to NDC National Chairman Sen. Moses Cleopas, urging him to familiarize himself with the party’s constitution before making public assertions. Her remarks came after the OK Movement unveiled a 59-member presidential campaign council on Thursday, appointing John Ughulu as National Director-General and Sani as National Secretary.
In response to the formation of the campaign council, the NDC issued a statement on Saturday disavowing any association with it and advising the public to disregard its announcement.
Sani emphasized that while the OK Movement acknowledges the primacy of political parties within constitutional frameworks, it remains an autonomous organization with its own leadership and internal processes. She reiterated the movement’s commitment to advocating for the NDC’s presidential and vice-presidential candidates, as well as other party candidates it chooses to support.
“The OK Movement does not require the personal validation or approval of any individual before exercising its legitimate organizational functions in accordance with established processes,” Sani stated.
Founded on grassroots support, the OK Movement claims to operate independently of any individual or political office holder for its initiatives. Sani clarified that the movement is not seeking political appointments or positions within the NDC in exchange for its support, emphasizing that its guiding principles remain intact.
The movement reports a nationwide structure comprising approximately 2.5 million registered members and coordinators. Sani stressed that the OK Movement is not a temporary coalition but rather an enduring organization with a clear philosophy and long-term vision.
Sani also addressed allegations concerning Ughulu’s involvement in the Lagos State primaries, clarifying that these issues require further examination. She affirmed the movement’s commitment to defending its members’ integrity while refraining from personal attacks or defamatory exchanges.
In light of the ongoing conflict, Sani called upon the NDC chairman to retract what she deemed defamatory statements and to apologize to the OK Movement and Ughulu.
“The OK Movement will not compromise its standards, surrender its independence, or be intimidated,” Sani declared, reiterating that its principles of accountability and long-term objectives for Nigeria are non-negotiable.
