Obidients want Atiku to drop 2027 plans and support Peter Obi for president instead.
They say Obi is honest, trusted, and the right person to lead Nigeria at this time.
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Supporters of Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, known popularly as the “Obidients,” have called on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to drop any plans to contest for president in 2027 and instead support Obi’s ambition. The appeal was made during a series of rallies in Abia State on Friday, organized in celebration of Obi’s 64th birthday.
The events, which were tagged “One Million Man March for Obi,” took place in different parts of the state, including Umuahia, Aba, Ohafia, and Uzuakoli. Supporters gathered peacefully to honor Obi and express their support for his potential 2027 bid under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), as rumors suggest he may contest on the party’s platform.
Speaking to reporters in Umuahia, the state capital, the Chairman of the Organizing Committee and one of the coordinators of the Obidient movement in Abia, Dr Chibuzor Obiesili, said the time had come for Atiku to step aside and allow Obi to lead the country. He described Obi as the right person to address Nigeria’s growing problems, noting that the country needs a leader with proven character and national acceptance.
Dr Obiesili acknowledged Atiku’s contributions to national development but urged him to consider making a greater sacrifice by backing Obi. He said that supporting Obi would be Atiku’s biggest gift to Nigeria.
He also praised Atiku and other opposition leaders for forming a coalition to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s expected re-election campaign. However, he advised that the coalition should allow the South to produce the presidential candidate, and in particular, endorse Obi for the top position.
Explaining the choice of Obi, Obiesili said the former Anambra State governor has consistently shown that he cares for the common people. He pointed to Obi’s integrity, humility, and transparency as qualities that set him apart from most Nigerian politicians.
He added, “Obi stands for the masses. He has continued to speak for the poor, regardless of tribe, religion or party. That is why many Nigerians love him.”
Obiesili said the birthday rally was not sponsored or forced, but was a voluntary effort by people who believe in Obi’s message and leadership style. He concluded by saying that if another honest and selfless politician like Obi appears tomorrow, they would celebrate that person too, but as it stands, Peter Obi remains unmatched in their view.
