The Obidient Movement has reacted to the appointment of its former National Coordinator, Dr Yunusa Tanko, as the National Coordinator of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) Presidential Campaign Council ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Movement described Tanko’s appointment as a testament to its leadership legacy and growing contribution to Nigeria’s political development.
In a statement issued by its Media and Communications Directorate, the group said the appointment reflected Tanko’s political experience, organisational capacity and commitment to building a better Nigeria.
It congratulated the former coordinator and wished him success in his new assignment.
The Obidient Movement also stressed that its membership cuts across political parties, ethnic groups, religions, generations and social backgrounds, noting that members remain united by their shared aspiration for competent, compassionate and accountable leadership.
Although the Movement encouraged its members to join the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), the political platform of its principal, Peter Obi, it maintained that the emergence of its members in influential positions across other political parties should be celebrated rather than viewed as a source of division.
“Consequently, the emergence of leaders from our Movement into influential positions across different political platforms should be a source of pride, not division,” the statement said.
It added that such appointments demonstrated the depth of talent, experience and leadership being nurtured within the Movement.
The group further linked Tanko’s new position to Obi’s political philosophy of prioritising national interests over partisan considerations.
As an example, it cited Obi’s recent attendance at the inauguration of the presidential campaign office of Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, despite their different political affiliations and presidential ambitions.
According to the Movement, Obi has consistently advocated collaboration among political leaders, irrespective of their political differences.
“Mr Obi has repeatedly emphasised the need for political leaders to put aside personal and partisan differences and work together to rescue Nigeria,” it stated.
The Movement maintained that its vision of building a New Nigeria was not centred on restricting capable Nigerians to a particular political party but on developing leaders who could contribute meaningfully to national development from any political platform.
“For us, building a New Nigeria has never been about restricting capable Nigerians to one political party. It is about developing a generation of leaders who can bring competence, integrity and a commitment to public service wherever they find themselves,” the statement added.
It reaffirmed its commitment to promoting leadership anchored on character, competence, capacity, compassion and commitment.
The statement concluded by celebrating Tanko, describing his political journey as evidence that the Obidient Movement was not merely building a political following but also nurturing leaders and creating opportunities for broader national collaboration.
