Supporters of Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, popularly identified as the Obidient Movement, have passionately appealed to former President Goodluck Jonathan to shelve any ambition of returning to contest for the presidency in 2027 and instead lend his full support to Obi’s bid. The group maintained that the upcoming general elections will be a defining moment for Nigeria, and for that reason, unity among progressive leaders remains paramount.
This development came shortly after a private closed-door meeting between Peter Obi and former President Jonathan on Thursday. Obi later disclosed details of their engagement through a post on his official X handle, where he warmly described Jonathan as “a very dear elder brother, statesman, and leader.” According to Obi, their deliberations revolved around the state of the nation, pressing issues facing Nigeria, and the need for national renewal.
Calls for Unity Ahead of the 2027 Election
Although Jonathan has yet to formally declare his intention to run for office in 2027, speculation has been rife across political circles and the media regarding his possible comeback. The idea of his return has stirred intense conversations nationwide, drawing mixed reactions from different political stakeholders and interest groups.
In response, the Obidient Movement made it clear that while Jonathan remains a highly respected figure in Nigeria’s democratic journey, they believe the time has come for him to rally behind Obi, who they described as the embodiment of the hopes and aspirations of millions of Nigerians yearning for genuine change. They emphasized that allowing Obi to lead the charge in 2027 would represent fairness, generational renewal, and a true commitment to national development.
Speaking on behalf of the movement, the group’s National Coordinator, Dr Yunusa Tanko, elaborated that both leaders are admired by Nigerians for their service and vision, but it is Peter Obi who has successfully inspired a mass movement that resonates with ordinary citizens. He highlighted that Obi continues to be the clear choice for millions of people across the country who want to see a shift from the old order of governance.
Jonathan Should Remain a Respected Statesman
Dr Tanko went further to acknowledge Jonathan’s democratic legacy, particularly his role in consolidating Nigeria’s democracy and ensuring a peaceful transition of power during his tenure. However, he insisted that this is the time for Jonathan to stand aside as a respected elder statesman while throwing his influence and political weight behind Obi’s presidential aspiration. He maintained that Jonathan has already secured a revered place in history and should now support a younger generation of leaders to continue from where he stopped.
“They have been close friends for many years, and the meeting was simply an opportunity for them to fraternise, exchange ideas, and discuss the collective responsibility of rescuing Nigeria. But for us in the Obidient Movement, the best outcome would be for Jonathan to remain the father figure and distinguished statesman that he is known for. He has done his best for this nation as President, he is still respected both at home and abroad, and this is truly the moment for him to back his brother, Peter Obi,” Dr Tanko explained.
The Obidient Movement further stressed that Nigeria is at a crossroads, and the 2027 general elections provide an opportunity for a total reset. They called for synergy and unity among opposition leaders to consolidate their strength, warning that division would only work to the advantage of the ruling establishment. According to them, a united front under Obi’s candidacy represents the best chance to steer Nigeria toward prosperity, justice, and good governance.
The message from the Obidient Movement underscores the growing pressure on Jonathan to clarify his political intentions while reaffirming the grassroots support Peter Obi enjoys ahead of 2027. The group concluded by urging Nigerians to prepare for a decisive election that could reshape the nation’s destiny for generations to come.