Supporters of former presidential candidate Peter Obi and ex-Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso have launched a new political pressure group, the Obi–Kwankwaso Movement, as permutations intensify ahead of the African Democratic Congress presidential primary.
The group, which announced its formation in Abuja on Monday, said it has already formed structures in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, as well as recruited state and zonal coordinators to push mobilization efforts.
Justin Ijeh, the movement’s National Publicity Secretary, stated this in an Abuja statement, identifying the endeavor as a political coalition comprised of the Obidient Movement, Kwankwasiyya, the New Nigeria People’s Party, and the African Democratic Congress.
The development marks a new level of realignment within the opposition alliance, as uncertainty grows over who would earn the ADC presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 national elections.
The OK Movement shares the structure and grassroots appeal of the Obidient Movement, which reshaped Nigeria’s political landscape during the 2023 elections.
Ijeh, speaking to journalists, explained that the new platform is made up of members from Kwankwasiya, Obidients, New Nigeria People’s Party, and the African Democratic Congress.
He said, “Nigeria stands at a defining crossroads. Today, as our people endure the weight of unprecedented economic hardship, the soaring cost of living, and the persistent shadow of insecurity, the Obi–Kwankwaso (OK) Movement formally unveils its national and state structures.
“This is more than a political milestone; it is the birth of a coordinated, nationwide engine for systemic reform and national rebirth. We recognize the exhaustion felt in every Nigerian household. Yet, in this moment of darkness, the OK Movement stands as a beacon of resolute hope.
“The Movement is a home for all well-meaning Nigerians. We reject the politics of tribalism, regionalism, and religious sentiment that have long been used to keep our people divided while the nation falters.”
Ijeh also revealed that the movement has set up a strong structure and support base across the country, while also unveiling a list of state and zonal coordinators.
“In the coming weeks, the official inauguration of our state chapters will commence across the federation. This is an open invitation to every Nigerian who believes that our current reality need not be our final destiny.
“Through solidarity, purposeful leadership, and the courage to demand better, we will prevail. The structures are set, the vision clear, the movement is here, and together, we will make Nigeria OK,” he noted.
When contacted, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, the Obidient Movement’s National Coordinator, acknowledged that the group is working with existing Obi support institutions to form a unified presidential ticket under the ADC.
“Yes, Ijeh and others are some of our people. There is no division. Both the OK Movement and the Village Boys Movement are working for the same purpose,” he said.
The birth of the OK Movement comes as tensions within the ADC rise over former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s aspiration to run in the party’s presidential primaries.
In a contentious interview, Atiku said he would not step down for any aspirant, causing concern among supporters of other key individuals in the coalition.
His words have fueled speculation about the party’s future standard-bearer, especially in light of Obi’s recent decision to unite with the ADC after running in the 2023 election on the labor party platform.
The former vice president also rejected the possibility of other northern candidates, claiming that none could equal his degree of political popularity.
Kwankwaso and former Sokoto State governor Aminu Tambuwal are thought to be vying for the ADC ticket alongside him.
The party, which is now chaired by former Senate President David Mark, has also attracted other prominent political personalities, like former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, increasing the race for the party’s presidential ticket.
Following Atiku’s remarks, the Kwankwasiyya movement dismissed reports of a fall in Kwankwaso’s political dominance, notably in Kano, calling such assertions false.
The group stated that only Obi and Kwankwaso have genuine nationwide grassroots support, claiming that their followership is “organic” and firmly ingrained throughout the country.
The most recent development highlights the intensifying competition for control within the opposition alliance, as several blocs position themselves ahead of the primaries.
Meanwhile, the Labour Party has distanced itself from viral social media messages imploring Obi and Kwankwaso to return to the party.
The posts, which were shared on X (previously Twitter) under the party’s name and logo, urged both politicians to abandon the ADC amid confusion over its internal dynamics.
One of the posts read, “Dear @PeterObi @KwankwasoRM, our doors are open.”
However, the party’s leadership, led by Interim National Chairman Nenadi Usman, denounced the messages as false, claiming they did not originate from the national secretariat.
The retort comes amid increased political speculation over Obi’s and Kwankwaso’s futures, particularly as the ADC coalition grapples with competing ambitions and internal alignments before its presidential primaries.
