The Obidient Movement, a citizens' movement supporting Peter Obi, the 2027 presidential candidate of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has announced the appointment of Moses Paul as its new National Coordinator. Paul, who was the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the recent Abuja Municipal Area Council chairmanship election, replaces Yunusa Tanko who served as national coordinator for three years. The appointment was announced by Onyeka Dike of the Movement's Media and Communications Directorate.
Tanko's reassignment as Special Adviser to Peter Obi on Northern Nigeria was necessitated by the movement's need for a new national coordinator. During his tenure, Tanko focused on strengthening the movement's organisational structure and institutional framework. He established a National Advisory Council to deepen strategic engagement and transition from election-cycle activism to a lasting institution. The movement also established offices across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, alongside five regional coordinators and a regional collegiate council.
Under Tanko's leadership, the Obidient Movement developed an online mobilisation and recruitment platform, www.obidients.com, alongside an election-results monitoring system linked to INEC's Results Viewing Portal. The movement expanded its engagement with communities, stakeholders, and support groups across the country as part of efforts to strengthen its organisational reach. Grassroots structures were established across the 37 state coordination areas and 774 local government areas to strengthen the movement's presence and mobilisation nationwide.
Leaders of the movement have commended Tanko for his contributions to its organisational development, coordination, and expansion during his three-year tenure. Tanko expressed his appreciation to the leadership, members, and supporters of Obidient Movement for their support throughout his tenure. He noted that his new role as special adviser to Peter Obi on Northern Nigeria would involve leading mobilisation and engagement efforts across the region.
Moses Paul, the new National Coordinator, has expressed appreciation for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to build on existing structures. He described the Obidient Movement as a citizens' movement rather than one centred on individuals, while soliciting the prayers, support, and cooperation of members and supporters. Paul acknowledged that Tanko's shoes are quite big and would need support to move the movement forward.
The Obidient Movement is a significant force in Nigerian politics, with a strong presence across the country. The movement's efforts to strengthen its organisational structure and institutional framework have been notable. With Paul at the helm, the movement is expected to continue its mobilisation and engagement efforts in the lead-up to the 2027 presidential election.
The appointment of Moses Paul as National Coordinator is seen as a strategic move to sustain the movement's momentum. Paul's experience as a candidate in the recent Abuja Municipal Area Council chairmanship election and his involvement in the ADC make him a suitable candidate for the position. The movement's leadership is confident that Paul will build on the foundations laid by Tanko and take the movement to new heights.
Key points
- Moses Paul replaces Yunusa Tanko as National Coordinator of Obidient Movement
- Tanko has been reassigned as Special Adviser to Peter Obi on Northern Nigeria
- The Obidient Movement has established a strong organisational structure and institutional framework under Tanko's leadership
