Obidient Movement Urges Jonathan To Support Peter Obi For 2027, Calls Him Respected Statesman Above Contest

 

A new wave of political appeal is unfolding ahead of the 2027 presidential election as the Obidient Movement, a political pressure group backing the presidential ambition of Peter Obi, has publicly called on former President Goodluck Jonathan to step aside and lend his support to Obi instead of entering the race himself. The group believes that Jonathan’s legacy as a respected statesman would be better preserved if he remains a supporter rather than a competitor.

This development comes shortly after a private meeting between Obi, the former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, and Jonathan in Abuja on Thursday. Obi shared images of the meeting on his official X handle, describing Jonathan as “a very dear elder brother, statesman, and leader.” According to him, their conversation revolved around the current condition of the country and possible paths to national recovery.

Although Jonathan has not issued any public statement regarding whether he plans to contest in 2027, political speculation has been rife in recent weeks suggesting that he might be courted by powerful interests to make a comeback. His silence on the matter has only fueled discussions across political circles, raising curiosity about his potential intentions.

The Obidient Movement, however, has taken a clear stance. Addressing journalists in Abuja, the group’s National Coordinator, Dr Yunusa Tanko, expressed admiration for both Obi and Jonathan but emphasized that Obi remains the candidate with the momentum and popular backing of millions of Nigerians who desire a fresh political direction.

Tanko explained that while Jonathan’s legacy as a former president remains secure, Obi embodies the aspirations of a growing youth-driven movement determined to reshape Nigeria’s governance system. He appealed to Jonathan to consolidate his elder statesman status by stepping aside and throwing his full support behind Obi.

“They have been friends for a long time and the meeting was for them to fraternise and discuss how to rescue Nigeria,” Tanko stated. “But for us in the Obidient Movement, it would be great if Jonathan remains the respected statesman he is known for. He has done his best as President, he is respected, and this is the time for him to support his brother.”

Political observers note that the meeting between Obi and Jonathan has stirred a new round of analysis over alignments and alliances that could shape the 2027 elections. For Obi, who has continued to position himself as a credible alternative to the ruling establishment, winning Jonathan’s endorsement could prove invaluable. Jonathan still commands influence across the Niger Delta and enjoys goodwill among sections of the electorate who view his administration with nostalgia compared to current realities.

At the same time, Obi’s appeal, especially among young Nigerians, urban professionals, and reform-minded voters, continues to grow. The Obidient Movement has been central in amplifying his message of accountability, transparency, and economic revival. For them, Jonathan’s role as a senior mentor could help consolidate support for Obi’s candidacy and present a united front against entrenched political structures.

The appeal to Jonathan is not without political undertones. Supporters of Obi view any potential entry by Jonathan into the 2027 race as a possible division of votes, particularly in southern Nigeria where both men enjoy significant popularity. A split of that magnitude could weaken Obi’s chances against candidates from the major political parties.

Analysts have pointed out that Nigeria’s political landscape thrives on strategic alliances. The Obidient Movement appears determined to ensure that Obi maintains the clearest path to victory by securing early endorsements from influential figures rather than competing with them. By publicly calling on Jonathan to step aside, the movement is signaling its readiness to avoid fragmentation and consolidate the energy of reform-minded Nigerians into one direction.

The closed-door meeting between Obi and Jonathan, though private, has become symbolic of the behind-the-scenes conversations that often shape the country’s elections. Both men share a cordial relationship, and the optics of their gathering have generated widespread attention, especially among those curious about Jonathan’s political future.

While Jonathan remains silent on his possible return to the race, the pressure from the Obidient Movement highlights the shifting dynamics within Nigeria’s opposition space. For many Nigerians, the question is no longer just about who will run in 2027, but how alliances will be formed and who will be willing to step aside for the sake of unity.

At the heart of this unfolding narrative is a call for sacrifice and foresight. The Obidient Movement is framing its message around fairness, progress, and the preservation of Jonathan’s legacy. The group insists that Obi’s candidacy represents the aspirations of millions of citizens looking for change, while Jonathan’s role as an elder statesman can be strengthened if he supports rather than competes against Obi.

As the months ahead bring more clarity on the shape of Nigeria’s political contest in 2027, the appeal from the Obidient Movement may prove to be a critical turning point. Whether Jonathan heeds their call or decides otherwise, the conversation has now become part of the broader debate about leadership, legacy, and the country’s future direction.