The Obi-Kwankwaso (OK) Movement has rejected the Nigeria Democratic Congress' (NDC) assertion that it needed the party's approval to set up a 59-member presidential campaign council for the 2027 election. According to the movement, it operates as an independent organisation with its own leadership and internal processes. This development arose after the NDC distanced itself from the campaign council announced by the OK Movement.
The OK Movement had named John Ughulu, its Director-General, as the Director-General of the campaign council, and Saadatu Sani, the movement's National Secretary, as the council's secretary. The council comprises zonal and state coordinators, as well as directors responsible for various aspects such as mobilisation, women's affairs, strategy, security, and legal affairs. The movement's announcement was made public on Thursday.
The NDC National Chairman, Cleopas Moses, responded by dissociating the party from the council, urging the public to disregard it. Moses stated that only the party leadership had the authority to constitute and announce a presidential campaign council. He also warned support groups against creating structures in the party's name without approval from the National Working Committee.
In response, Saadatu Sani argued that the NDC chairman needed to familiarise himself with the party's constitution. She emphasised that the OK Movement's independence meant it did not require personal validation or approval from any individual within the party to carry out its organisational activities. The movement asserted its right to exercise its legitimate organisational functions in accordance with established processes.
The OK Movement recognised the authority of political parties within their constitutional and statutory spheres but maintained that it was not an organ of the NDC. The movement stated that it would continue to mobilise support for Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, as well as other NDC candidates where it had resolved to support them. It also clarified that it was not seeking political appointments or positions within the NDC as a condition for its support.
Sani addressed the controversy involving Ughulu and allegations related to the Lagos State primary, stating that the matter required clarification. She assured that the movement would defend its members where their integrity was questioned but would not engage in personal insults or defamatory exchanges. The OK Movement demanded that Moses withdraw statements it considered defamatory and apologise to the group and Ughulu.
The OK Movement reaffirmed its independence as it continues its mobilisation ahead of the 2027 election. The group insisted that its activities were guided by its own principles and organisational objectives. The development highlights the ongoing dynamics between the OK Movement and the NDC as the 2027 election approaches.
Key points
- The Obi-Kwankwaso Movement asserts its independence from the NDC.
- The movement rejects the NDC's claim over its 59-member campaign council.
- The OK Movement demands an apology from the NDC chairman over defamatory statements.
