Sokoto Obidients Blast Kenneth Okonkwo, Declare: Peter Obi Is the Face of a New Nigeria — North, South, East, and West

By Our Correspondent

The Sokoto State chapter of the Obidient Movement has taken a swipe at Nollywood actor , Kenneth Okonkwo, over his recent claim that only a northern candidate can defeat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

The group described Okonkwo’s statement as anti-democratic, divisive, and a betrayal of the ideals upheld by the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

Speaking at a press conference held Thursday at the Labour Party Secretariat in Sokoto, the movement’s spokesperson, Abubakar Yawale, dismissed the remarks as strategically flawed and harmful to the unity and momentum of the Obidient Movement.

He insisted that the notion that a southeastern candidate cannot win the presidency is a false and dangerous myth crafted to sow division and weaken the opposition ahead of the 2027 polls.

According to Yawale, Peter Obi remains the symbol of hope, justice, and competent leadership for millions of Nigerians across all regions.

“The notion that a southeastern candidate cannot win is a dangerous myth,” he said. “Mr. Peter Obi’s appeal cuts across all regions, and his growing acceptance in the North is undeniable.”

Yawale cited Obi’s recent traditional recognition in Gombe State, where the District Head of Pantami conferred on him the title Sarkin Maskan Pantami (Chief of Shelter and Peace), as proof of the Labour Party leader’s increasing grassroots popularity in northern Nigeria.

He attributed this support to Obi’s humanitarian track record, principled leadership, and clear vision for national reform.

He further highlighted the strong presence of the Obidient Movement across all 23 local government areas of Sokoto State, where members are actively engaging farmers, traders, artisans, and youths.

“This is not a social media movement,” Yawale said. “It’s a village-to-village, ward-to-ward effort rooted in real people and real communities.”

Referencing the 2023 presidential election, he recalled that Peter Obi secured 6.1 million votes, defeated Tinubu in Lagos, and captured 25.4 percent of the national vote. When combined with Atiku Abubakar’s 29.07 percent, he said the opposition bloc amassed more than 13 million votes—well ahead of Tinubu’s 8.79 million.

Yawale argued that the results, coupled with current discontent across the country, especially in the North, point to a growing readiness for change and a strong alignment with Obi’s message of economic justice and reform.

He also praised the emerging realignment of opposition figures, including Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rotimi Amaechi, under the ADC-led coalition. He described Obi as the unifying figure with the broadest cross-regional appeal and called on opposition forces to close ranks around him.

Reacting to Okonkwo’s claim that a southern candidate would guarantee Tinubu an easy win, Yawale responded sharply: “Peter Obi’s win in Lagos and his broad national appeal refute that claim.

The 2027 presidency, both morally and constitutionally, belongs to the South. Suggesting otherwise divides the opposition and plays straight into Tinubu’s hands.”

Yawale also dismissed concerns that Obi’s victory could be rigged again in 2027, insisting that the movement will never accept electoral fraud as a given.

“We reject defeatism,” he said. “Democracy demands that we fight for electoral integrity, not surrender to rigging.”

Delivering a direct message to Peter Obi, Yawale reaffirmed the Sokoto Obidient Movement’s unwavering support for his continued presidential bid.

“You are our candidate—North, South, East, and West,” he declared. “We reject any move to relegate you to a vice-presidential role.”

He urged northern leaders and civil society groups to spearhead a North for Obi campaign rooted in shared ideals of justice, security, and economic fairness.

Yawale concluded by calling on Kenneth Okonkwo to withdraw his divisive remarks and work toward unity.

“The road to victory in 2027 lies not in tribal calculations but in true national transformation,” he said. “Peter Obi represents that future. It’s time to rally behind him.”