A political group operating under the Obidient Movement umbrella has announced a major restructuring ahead of the 2027 general elections, including a rebranding of the movement and the removal of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, along with his close associate, Yunusa Tanko.
The development was revealed during a press briefing held in Abuja on Thursday, May 7, 2026, and was reported by Arise Television.
Leaders of the newly unveiled movement stated that the former structure linked to Obi after the 2023 presidential election had been dissolved. They also announced the expulsion of individuals allegedly appointed under what they described as an unauthorised leadership arrangement formed after the election.
According to the group, the decision was driven by concerns over alleged political opportunism and claims that the movement had been used for personal interests rather than its founding objectives.
The organisation further disclosed that it has officially adopted the name “OBEDIENT Movement” as part of efforts to separate itself from Obi, his associates, and the Labour Party structure connected to the 2023 elections.
The group noted that several attempts were made to reach Peter Obi and Yunusa Tanko through calls, text messages, and WhatsApp for their reactions, but no response was received at the time of the briefing.
Speaking at the event, the International Coordinator of the rebranded movement, Barry Avotu Johnson, stated that the organisation had not endorsed any presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.
Johnson also clarified that the movement no longer maintains political ties with the Labour Party. He explained that the rebranding became necessary because the ideals and principles that inspired the movement during the 2023 elections were no longer reflected in its current leadership structure.
According to him, the group believes the movement gradually drifted away from its original purpose after the conclusion of the last presidential election.
