Obidient Movement Denies Asking Jonathan to Abandon 2027 Presidential Ambition for Peter Obi

The Obidient Movement has dismissed reports claiming it appealed to former President Goodluck Jonathan to drop any plans of contesting the 2027 presidential election in favor of Mr. Peter Obi.

According to Independent News on Sunday, September 14, 2025, the National Coordinator of the movement, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, clarified in a conversation with Daily Independent that the claim was “misleading and inaccurate.”

Tanko explained that what the movement emphasized was the principle of reciprocity, pointing to Obi’s loyalty to Jonathan during a critical political moment in 2015.

“That report is false. We never asked former President Jonathan to step down for Peter Obi. What transpired was that I was asked to comment on Obi’s visit to Jonathan. I explained that they share a long-standing relationship and reminded people that Obi stood by Jonathan when others betrayed him. Therefore, it is only natural for Jonathan to reciprocate Obi’s gesture. At no time did I use the words ‘beg’ or ‘step down,’” Tanko stated.

He recalled that during Jonathan’s presidency, when he faced intense opposition and eventual defeat, many political heavyweights, including Rotimi Amaechi, worked against him. However, Obi remained steadfast in his support and refused to join the opposition’s campaign to oust Jonathan.

Tanko stressed that the Obidient Movement is not pressuring Jonathan, but rather calling for fairness and mutual respect. He added that as the 2027 elections draw closer, the movement believes Jonathan should naturally consider supporting Obi in recognition of his past loyalty.