North Sokoto Obidients Launch “North for Obi” Initiative, Lambast Kenneth Okonkwo
The Sokoto State chapter of the Obidient Movement has officially launched the “North for Obi” initiative—a grassroots campaign designed to mobilise widespread support across northern Nigeria for Mr. Peter Obi’s 2027 presidential ambition.
Speaking during a press briefing in Sokoto, the group’s spokesperson, Abubakar Yawale, said the movement will focus on engaging communities, youth organisations, religious groups, and professional associations to reinforce Obi’s popularity in the North.
According to Yawale, the initiative is a direct response to recent political discussions suggesting that Obi should consider accepting a vice-presidential slot in any planned coalition. He specifically criticised Labour Party chieftain and spokesperson, Kenneth Okonkwo, for advancing the idea, describing it as an insult to the millions of Nigerians who supported Obi in 2023: “Peter Obi is not a bargaining chip. He represents hope for ordinary Nigerians tired of the same old politicians. Any attempt to push him aside as a running mate is unacceptable and will be resisted,” Yawale declared.
The Sokoto Obidients also insisted that Obi’s performance in the 2023 election demonstrated his viability in the North, rejecting narratives that he lacked grassroots support in the region: “From Sokoto to Kano to Maiduguri, people voted for Peter Obi because they believed in his capacity to lead. We cannot allow narrow political calculations to derail this movement,” he added.
Under the “North for Obi” platform, the group plans to hold town hall meetings, voter education programs, and advocacy tours across northern states to sustain momentum ahead of 2027.
Yawale further called on the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other coalition partners to embrace Obi as the consensus presidential candidate, warning that any arrangement falling short of this goal could fracture the opposition’s base: “This is not about tribe or religion. It is about competence, integrity, and the future of our country. Nigerians deserve better, and Peter Obi represents that hope,” he said.
The declaration highlights the growing tensions within opposition circles as political alignments begin to take shape toward the next election cycle. For Obi’s core supporters, any compromise on his presidential bid appears off the table.
