You lack moral authority to lecture us on patriotism – Obidients to Alimodu Sheriff
Obidient Movement Criticizes Ali Modu Sheriff’s Comments on Tinubu Administration
The Obidient Movement has issued a statement condemning former Ali Modu Sheriff for his remarks during a recent television interview. The group accused Sheriff of evading questions regarding President Bola Tinubu’s administration and instead diverting the conversation to the Nigerian Civil War.
In the statement released Monday by its Media and Communications Directorate, the Obidient Movement claimed that Sheriff did not adequately respond to inquiries about calls for Tinubu’s resignation amid increasing insecurity and economic difficulties. During his appearance on Channels Television, Sheriff reportedly shifted the focus away from the government’s performance, emphasizing historical issues and referencing Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi.
The Obidient Movement asserted that Obi has been a proponent of national unity and inclusive development. The group highlighted his investments in northern Nigeria while serving as chairman of Fidelity Bank and his proposals to enhance agricultural productivity in the region as part of a broader strategy to diversify the economy.
Responding to discussions about separatist movements, the movement reiterated its stance that Obi champions a united Nigeria. It emphasized that issues should be resolved through dialogue, justice, and adherence to the rule of law.
Additionally, the group challenged Sheriff’s credibility, alleging his early involvement in the rise of the Boko Haram insurgency, which has contributed to significant turmoil in the North. They argued that this background undermines his position to address issues of patriotism and national loyalty.
“It is deeply ironic that Ali Modu Sheriff, a man widely associated with the early rise and sponsorship of Boko Haram, now seeks to lecture anyone on these matters,” the statement read.
The group claimed that defenders of the Tinubu administration frequently employ ethnicity, religion, and historical narratives to divert attention from pressing national issues, including insecurity, economic hardship, and rising hunger levels.
The Obidient Movement expressed that Nigerians are more focused on current economic and security challenges than on historical debates, urging the government to prioritize solutions over political distractions.