Supporters of Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi—popularly known as “Obidients”—have called on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to shelve his rumoured 2027 presidential ambition and instead support Obi as the consensus flagbearer of the emerging opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The appeal was made during a mega rally in Abia State on Saturday, held in celebration of Obi’s 64th birthday. The event, tagged “One Million-Man March for Obi,” took place simultaneously in Umuahia, Aba, Ohafia, and Uzuakoli.
Speaking in Umuahia, Dr. Chibuzor Obiesili, Chairman of the rally’s Organising Committee and a coordinator of the Obidient Movement in Abia, praised Atiku’s longstanding efforts in national politics but urged him to take the back seat in 2027 and support Obi, whom he described as the man with the capacity to rescue Nigeria from its challenges.
“We appreciate Atiku’s contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey, but his greatest gift to the country now would be to support Peter Obi’s presidential bid. Obi has the integrity, national appeal, and leadership qualities needed to reset Nigeria,” Obiesili said.
He applauded the formation of the new opposition coalition aimed at unseating President Bola Tinubu in 2027 but insisted that the presidential ticket should be zoned to the South, particularly to Obi.
“We thank the leaders of the coalition but urge them to present Obi as their presidential candidate. He has the nationwide goodwill and credibility to defeat the APC,” he added.
Obiesili also noted that the rally was entirely voluntary, held by supporters inspired by Obi’s values and consistent advocacy for the downtrodden.
“Obi stands out for his integrity, simplicity, and compassion. He has earned the love of many across political, religious, and ethnic divides. We haven’t seen a politician in Nigeria today as transparent as him. Until we do, he remains our standard.”
He prayed for Obi’s continued good health and expressed hope that he would one day lead Nigeria as president.
The rally also featured visits to correctional centres, hospitals, and orphanages, where supporters donated relief items in honour of Obi’s birthday. Jubilant crowds marched through major streets in Umuahia, singing solidarity songs and drawing support from bystanders.
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