The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has publicly declared its support for the Obidient and Kwankwasiya movements, despite recent controversy surrounding the party's relationship with the Obi-Kwankwaso Movement. In a statement released on September 20, 2026, NDC National Secretary Osa Director emphasized the party's pride in having both groups within its structure. The Obidient and Kwankwasiya movements are considered two of Nigeria's most resilient political movements.
According to Director, the Obidient and Kwankwasiya movements have consistently defended their political beliefs, making them valuable assets to any political organization. The NDC secretary highlighted that the presence of these movements within the party is a source of pride, as it is one of Nigeria's fastest-growing political parties. The statement, titled "NDC LOVES OBIDIENT AND KWANKWASIYA MOVEMENTS," aimed to address the ongoing controversy.
The controversy began when the OK Movement demanded an apology from the NDC over comments made by the party's National Chairman, Senator Moses Cleopas. Cleopas had criticized a 59-member Presidential Campaign Council unveiled by the movement, stating that it did not originate from the NDC and should be disregarded. The OK Movement's National Secretary, Saadatu Sani, responded by calling on Cleopas to withdraw his comments and apologize.
Sani emphasized that the OK Movement has a nationwide grassroots structure and an internal database of approximately 2.5 million registered members and coordinators. The movement rejected what it described as an attempt to intimidate the organization and insisted on its independence. In response, the NDC National Secretary denied claims that the party does not support the OK Movement, calling them false.
The NDC party maintained that it remains united with the OK Movement in supporting its presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and his running mate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. The party emphasized its commitment to ensuring their victory in the 2027 elections. The statement described Obi and Kwankwaso as representatives of a "New Nigeria," urging supporters to remain focused on the upcoming political objective.
The NDC party views the Obidient and Kwankwasiya movements as a significant threat to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). According to the party, the APC is aware of this threat but refuses to admit it. As a result, the APC is allegedly spreading false narratives, including the claim that the NDC does not support the OK Movement.
The NDC party's declaration of support for the Obidient and Kwankwasiya movements is seen as a strategic move to solidify its position ahead of the 2027 elections. The party's decision to stand in solidarity with these movements may have significant implications for Nigeria's political landscape.
Key points
- The NDC party has expressed its support for the Obidient and Kwankwasiya movements.
- The OK Movement has a nationwide grassroots structure with approximately 2.5 million registered members.
- The NDC party views the Obidient and Kwankwasiya movements as a threat to the ruling APC.
