The Obi-Kwankwaso (OK) Movement has reaffirmed its independence, stating that its Presidential Campaign Council remains valid and operational. This move comes despite Peter Obi, the Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), objecting to the establishment of the Council. Obi had emphasized that the OK Movement is a support group and should not form a campaign council.
In a statement on ARISE Television, Obi clarified that the OK Movement, comprising himself and Kwankwaso, requires express approval from both individuals for any actions taken. He stressed that support groups should play their designated roles without assuming party responsibilities. The OK Movement, along with other groups like the Obidient group and Kwankwasiyya, are supporting groups that should focus on backing the party.
Responding to Obi's statements, John Ughulu, National Director-General of the OK Movement, issued a statement asserting the movement's internal structure is separate from the NDC's organisational structures. Ughulu emphasized that the movement's leadership decisions and organisational mechanisms do not require validation or approval from the party leadership.
Ughulu highlighted that the OK movement views candidates contesting under the NDC platform as potential beneficiaries of its grassroots mobilisation and political structure. He noted that no candidate should consider themselves superior to another due to political position, office, or proximity to party leadership. The OK movement does not claim superiority over the NDC.
According to Ughulu, the OK Movement is an independent political organisation with its own principles, values, leadership, and organisational framework. The movement does not require financial support from the NDC presidential candidate or the party to establish or operate its organisational structure. Its position on independence and organisational authority was communicated before announcing its Presidential Campaign Council.
Ughulu cited the Nigerian Constitution and the NDC Constitution, stating that neither automatically vests exclusive authority in the party or its candidate to determine the internal structure of an independent political organisation. He emphasized that the NDC can constitute and manage its campaign structures, just as the OK movement can organise and manage its affairs within the law.
The OK movement remains willing to engage constructively with the NDC, working within its principles, values, and structures. Ughulu stated that the movement will not abandon its principles or organisational identity to satisfy individual or group preferences. The OK movement will continue to focus on grassroots mobilisation and its mission to contribute to Nigeria's transformation.
Key points
- OK Movement asserts its independence from NDC.
- Peter Obi objects to OK Movement's Presidential Campaign Council.
- OK Movement to continue with its organisational structure and mission.
