Sokoto state – The Sokoto state chapter of the Obidient Movement has broken its silence ahead of the 2027 general election, firmly opposing any plan to offer Peter Obi a vice-presidential position under a proposed coalition led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday, July 10, at the Sokoto state Secretariat, the group described such a move as a betrayal of the hopes and aspirations of millions of Nigerians who view Obi as a symbol of a new Nigeria.
Obidients dismiss ethnic argument, back competence
Abubakar Yawale, spokesperson for the group, criticised recent comments by a former Labour Party chieftain, Kenneth Okonkwo, who claimed that only a northern candidate could unseat President Bola Tinubu.
Yawale described Okonkwo’s position as “divisive and undemocratic,” stressing that the Obidient Movement stands for competence, national unity, and inclusion, not ethnic or regional politics.
“Peter Obi’s 2023 electoral performance, winning in Lagos, Abuja, and other key states, proves Nigerians are ready to vote for competence over tribal considerations,” Yawale stated.
Obi’s northern popularity cited as growing
The group highlighted Obi’s rising acceptance in the North, pointing to strong grassroots support across all 23 local government areas of Sokoto state, Punch reported.
They also referenced Obi’s recent honorary title of Sarkin Maskan Pantami in Gombe state as proof that northern Nigerians appreciate his integrity, leadership, and service-focused politics.
‘No to VP slot for Obi’ — Obidients issue strong warning
Addressing the possibility of Obi accepting a vice-presidential role in 2027, the group was firm in its rejection.
“Peter Obi is not a bargaining chip. He must remain the presidential flagbearer. Anything less would be an injustice to the vision of a new Nigeria,” Yawale declared.
To back this stance, the group launched a regional initiative tagged “North for Obi,” focused on building wider support for Obi across northern Nigeria, Leadership reported.
