The Obidient Movement has firmly denied circulating claims that Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential flagbearer, is planning to run as Atiku Abubakar’s deputy in the 2027 general elections.
In a press release on Monday from Abuja, the group’s Director of Strategic Communications, Nana Kazaure, condemned the reports as entirely unfounded and misleading.
According to Kazaure, recent publications alleging Obi’s acceptance of a vice-presidential slot under Atiku in a proposed opposition alliance are false and misleading.
“The Obidient Movement has been inundated with calls from our members within and outside the country, including other members of the public, regarding a media publication claiming that our principal, Peter Obi, has been offered the running mate position to Alhaji Atiku Abubakar in the new coalition being formed ahead of 2027,” Kazaure stated.
“Even as we know that the publication is imaginary to the author, we are tempted not to ignore it because of the possible far-reaching misconception it will have in the public space.”
Kazaure clarified that while discussions with political allies are ongoing, the reports of an Obi-Atiku ticket are purely speculative.
“While frank and cordial engagements with our partners and stakeholders towards a coalition continue amicably, the Obidient Movement would like to state emphatically that there is no truth or basis to the reports whatsoever,” she emphasised.
“Without any risk of contradiction, we would like to reiterate that Mr Obi has maintained that his objective and his involvement in a coalition, is to provide a united front against and to tackle issues of bad governance, corruption, hunger, poverty, poor healthcare, out of school children and the myriad of other problems daily afflicting the people of Nigeria.”
Kazaure stressed that the movement is focused on transformative, people-centred politics rather than power games.
“We want politics that is progressive, standing firmly with the people and serving the great people of Nigeria and not politics just for the sake of grabbing power.”
She further noted that Obi remains committed to the Labour Party, and any shift in his political direction would come directly from him.
“At this point in time, Mr Peter Obi remains in the Labour Party, and if ever this changes, he will make that announcement himself.”
In conclusion, she urged media platforms to avoid spreading unverified political narratives, especially in sensitive times.
“The Obidient Movement would like to advise against sensationalism and speculation on these matters.
“At this difficult time, all Nigerians and the Media, inclusive, should emphasise and contribute to building a better country.”