Supporters of former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, and former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, have unveiled a new political pressure group, the Obi–Kwankwaso Movement, as realignments intensify ahead of the African Democratic Congress presidential primaries.
The group, which announced its emergence in Abuja on Monday, said it has established structures across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, including the appointment of state and zonal coordinators.
The emergence of the movement comes amid growing tension within the ADC following the declaration of interest by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Its National Publicity Secretary, Justin Ijeh, disclosed this in a statement, describing the initiative as a coalition of forces drawn from the Obidient Movement, Kwankwasiyya, the New Nigeria People’s Party, and the ADC.
“This is more than a political milestone; it is the birth of a coordinated, nationwide engine for systemic reform and national rebirth,” Mr Ijeh said.
“Nigeria stands at a defining crossroads… as our people endure unprecedented economic hardship, soaring cost of living, and persistent insecurity.”
Mobilisation drive
Mr Ijeh said the movement aims to build a nationwide support base anchored on unity and reform.
“The movement is a home for all well-meaning Nigerians. We reject the politics of tribalism, regionalism, and religious sentiment,” he said.
He added that structures have already been deployed nationwide, with plans to inaugurate state chapters in the coming weeks.
“The structures are set, the vision clear, the movement is here and together, we will make Nigeria OK,” he said.
Alignment with Obi structures
Confirming the development, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Dr Yunusa Tanko, said the initiative aligns with existing support structures for Mr Obi.
“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.
He added that the groups are working towards a joint presidential ticket under the ADC.
ADC race heats up
Mr Atiku had stated he would not step down for any aspirant, a position that has unsettled some stakeholders.
He also dismissed the chances of other northern contenders, insisting none matched his political strength.
Other figures speculated to be eyeing the ADC ticket include Mr Obi, Mr Kwankwaso, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, and former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal.
The party, chaired by former Senate President David Mark, has also attracted key political actors, including former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami.
Kwankwasiyya response
Reacting to claims about declining influence, the Kwankwasiyya movement defended Mr Kwankwaso’s political relevance, particularly in Kano.
The group maintained that only Mr Obi and Mr Kwankwaso command genuine nationwide grassroots support, describing their followership as “organic” and deeply rooted.
Labour Party disclaimer
Meanwhile, the Labour Party distanced itself from viral social media posts urging Mr Obi and Mr Kwankwaso to return to its fold.
The party, under its Interim National Chairman, Nenadi Usman, described the messages as fraudulent.
The posts, circulated on X, had read in part: “Dear @PeterObi @KwankwasoRM, our doors are open.”
However, the party insisted the messages did not originate from its national secretariat.
The development signals deepening alignments and rivalries within Nigeria’s opposition coalition, as key political figures and blocs position themselves ahead of the ADC primaries and the 2027 presidential election.
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