Obidients Slam Dino Melaye, Say Peter Obi Nigeria’s Best Hope
The Obidient Movement has rejected former senator Dino Melaye’s assertion that Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, lacks the capacity to unite Nigeria, insisting the former Anambra State governor remains the right leader for the country.
In a statement on Friday in Abuja, National Coordinator Yunusa Tanko described Melaye’s comments as a misreading of Nigeria’s current political climate and the growing demand for a new style of leadership.
Melaye had acknowledged Obi as a “fantastic Nigerian” and a “great man” but argued that he lacked the ability to unify the nation, suggesting the presidency was “not his time.”
The movement countered that such claims reflect the mindset of a political establishment responsible for the divisions it now claims to resolve.
“The question is not whether it is Peter Obi’s time, but whether it is time for Nigeria to finally break free from the cycle of failed leadership, economic stagnation and disunity,” the statement said.
The group highlighted the mass rallies held across the North, South, East and West during the 2023 election as evidence of Obi’s national appeal.
It cited his victory in Lagos State, a stronghold of President Bola Tinubu, and in the Federal Capital Territory, as proof of his cross-regional support.
The movement also pointed to Obi’s choice of running mate, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, as a deliberate effort to promote inclusiveness and national balance.
Beyond national unity, the group emphasised Obi’s record as governor of Anambra State, where his eight-year administration prioritised fiscal discipline, education, healthcare and infrastructure, earning him recognitions such as “Most Prudent Governor in Nigeria” by THISDAY Newspapers and “Best Performing Governor on Immunisation” by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
The statement further highlighted Obi’s advocacy for shifting Nigeria from a consumption-driven to a production-based economy, noting that growing youth support reflects a new political consciousness demanding transparency, accountability and effective governance.
“It is precisely because Nigeria is at a crossroads, facing unprecedented economic hardship and social division, that this is the time for a leader like Peter Obi. His time is now because Nigeria’s time for a new beginning is now,” the Obidient Movement said.
Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.
