The Obidient-Kwankwaso (OK) Movement has asserted its independence from the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), stating that it does not require the party's validation or approval to exercise its organisational functions. National Secretary of the OK Movement, Saadatu Sani, made this statement in Abuja on Sunday, in response to a remark by NDC's National Chairman, Moses Cleopas.
The OK Movement had recently unveiled a 59-member presidential campaign council, with John Ughulu as national director-general and Ms Sani as national secretary. However, the NDC distanced itself from the council, urging the public to disregard it. In her statement, Ms Sani emphasised that the OK Movement is an independent organisation with its leadership and internal processes, and that it will campaign for NDC's presidential and vice-presidential candidates, Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso.
The OK Movement's national secretary stressed that the organisation was established from the grassroots and does not rely on sponsorship from any individual or political office holder. She also clarified that the movement is not seeking political appointments or positions within the NDC as a condition for its support. According to Ms Sani, the OK Movement has a nationwide grassroots structure with approximately 2.5 million registered members and coordinators.
Ms Sani further explained that the OK Movement is not a temporary support group created for an election cycle, but an organisation with a philosophy, structure, and long-term vision. The movement's focus is on demanding a better political system, economic opportunity, accountability, and a government that prioritises citizens' needs.
The OK Movement's national secretary also addressed allegations concerning John Ughulu's involvement in the Lagos State primaries, stating that the matter requires clarification. She assured that the movement will defend its members' integrity whenever it is questioned, while avoiding personal insults or defamatory exchanges.
In response to what she considered defamatory statements by the NDC national chairman, Ms Sani called on him to withdraw the comments and tender an apology to the OK Movement and Mr Ughulu. She reaffirmed that the OK Movement will not compromise its standards, surrender its independence, or be intimidated.
The OK Movement's principles, Ms Sani emphasised, remain non-negotiable, with a focus on organisational values, independence, accountability, and long-term objectives for Nigeria. The movement's stance underscores its commitment to promoting a better political system in the country.
Key points
- OK Movement asserts its independence from NDC
- The movement has a nationwide grassroots structure with 2.5 million registered members
- OK Movement's principles remain non-negotiable, focusing on organisational values and independence
