Don’t cause crisis in Obi’s camp, OK Movement warns NDC, Obidients
Tensions Emerge Within NDC Support Groups Ahead of 2027 Elections
By Henry Umoru
ABUJA — As campaigns for Nigeria’s 2027 general elections gain momentum, the Obi-Kwankwaso (OK) Movement has issued a warning to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) Presidential Campaign Council and the Obidient Movement to avoid actions that may exacerbate divisions within the camp of presidential candidate Peter Obi.
Last month, tensions surfaced between the leadership of the NDC and the OK Movement after the latter announced its presidential campaign council. The NDC quickly criticized the move, asserting that support groups should focus on backing the party and its candidates rather than taking on roles traditionally reserved for a political party.
In response to the NDC’s stance, the OK Movement clarified that it is committed to ensuring both Peter Obi and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso secure victory in 2027. This contention has led to increased friction between the groups.
Adebayo Brown, the United Kingdom Coordinator of the OK Movement, accused NDC and Obidient Movement leaders of fostering divisions among supporters of Obi’s presidential bid. He urged them to cease what he called “unnecessary political disputes” and concentrate on mobilizing citizens and strengthening grassroots efforts in preparation for the upcoming elections.
Brown specifically targeted Moses Paul, Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, and Mallam Ibrahim Hussain Abdulkarim, Director-General of the NDC campaign, for purportedly allowing personal disagreements to distract them from their organizational duties.
“The 2027 general elections demand strategic thinking and effective coordination,” Brown said. “Rather than focusing on these essential tasks, attention seems directed towards the National Director-General of the OK Movement, Hon. John Ozyl Ughulu.”
With the election less than three months away, Brown stressed the importance of building political structures and preparing for electoral mobilization instead of engaging in disputes regarding the affiliations of Obi and Kwankwaso with the OK Movement.
He emphasized that the strength of the OK Movement is founded on its ideology and core values, rather than the endorsements or disavowals of individual politicians.
Brown acknowledged Ughulu’s dedication and efforts in establishing and enhancing the OK Movement, asserting that his commitment should not be misconstrued as self-serving. He also noted that the Coordinator of the Obidient Movement does not have the authority to represent Obi or Kwankwaso’s interests unilaterally.
He cautioned against any further divisive rhetoric, reaffirming that the OK Movement and the Obidient Movement are not adversaries. Instead, he called for unity in addressing the democratic challenges facing Nigerians.
Brown concluded by reiterating that the OK Movement aims to remain focused on its mission, advocating for justice, equity, and credible elections. “The time for division is over. The time to work is now,” he stated.
