Obi, Kwankwaso Allies Launch Joint Movement Ahead of ADC Primaries

By Chisom Adaeze

Supporters of former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, and ex-Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, have launched a new political pressure group, the Obi–Kwankwaso (OK) Movement, in what appears to be a strategic buildup ahead of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primaries.

The movement, unveiled in Abuja, is positioned as a coalition of key political blocs, including the Obidient Movement, Kwankwasiyya, the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), and elements within the ADC. Organisers say it already has structures across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with coordinators appointed to drive nationwide mobilisation.

National Publicity Secretary of the group, Justin Ijeh, described the initiative as a unified platform aimed at harnessing grassroots energy and building a broad-based political force capable of influencing the 2027 elections.

He said the movement reflects growing frustration among Nigerians over economic hardship, rising cost of living, and insecurity, positioning the OK Movement as a vehicle for national reform and political change.

“This is more than a political alignment; it is a coordinated nationwide effort for systemic reform and national rebirth,” Ijeh stated, adding that the movement rejects divisive politics rooted in ethnicity, religion, and regionalism.

The emergence of the OK Movement signals a new phase of realignment within the opposition, particularly within the ADC, where multiple high-profile aspirants are already positioning for the presidential ticket.

Observers note that the structure and mobilisation strategy of the group closely mirrors the grassroots-driven Obidient Movement, which played a significant role in reshaping Nigeria’s political landscape during the 2023 elections.

Confirming the development, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, said the initiative aligns with existing Obi support structures and broader efforts to build a joint presidential ticket within the ADC.

According to him, there is no division among supporters, as different groups are working toward a common objective of political consolidation ahead of the primaries.

The development comes amid rising tension within the ADC, particularly following the declaration by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to contest the party’s presidential ticket. Atiku has insisted he will not step down for any aspirant, a stance that has sparked unease among supporters of other contenders.

Other prominent figures linked to the ADC race include former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi and former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, highlighting the intensifying contest within the opposition coalition.

The ADC, currently chaired by former Senate President David Mark, has continued to attract influential political figures, further raising the stakes ahead of the primaries.

Meanwhile, the Kwankwasiyya movement has pushed back against claims of declining influence, insisting that both Obi and Kwankwaso retain strong grassroots support across the country.

In a related development, the Labour Party has distanced itself from viral social media posts urging Obi and Kwankwaso to return to its fold, describing the messages as unauthorised and not originating from its leadership.

As political permutations intensify, the launch of the OK Movement underscores the deepening battle for dominance within Nigeria’s opposition ranks, with alliances, coalitions, and grassroots mobilisation expected to shape the road to 2027.