The Obidient Movement has rejected comments made by former senator Dino Melaye, who claimed that Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, does not have what it takes to unite Nigeria. The group maintained that the former Anambra State governor is well positioned to lead the country.
In a statement released on Friday in Abuja by the movement’s National Coordinator, Yunusa Tanko, the group said Melaye’s remarks failed to reflect the current political climate and the widespread demand among Nigerians for a different approach to leadership.
Melaye was reported to have described Obi as a “fantastic Nigerian” and a “great man,” but argued that he lacks the capacity to bring the country together and that the presidency was “not his time.”
Responding, the movement said such views represent the mindset of a long-standing political system that has contributed to the divisions it now claims to address.
The group argued that the real issue is not whether it is Obi’s turn, but whether Nigeria is ready to move away from what it described as years of poor governance, economic decline and political fragmentation.
“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 movement added that the strong momentum Obi gained during the 2023 presidential election demonstrated his ability to attract support across ethnic and regional lines.
It referenced the growth of the Obidient Movement, which it described as a youth-led grassroots coalition that mobilised supporters nationwide regardless of religion, ethnicity or location.
According to the group, large rallies were organised across the North, South, East and West, showing what it called broad national backing.
It also pointed to Obi’s performance in the 2023 election, including his victory in Lagos State and strong results in the Federal Capital Territory, as proof of his nationwide appeal.
The statement further noted that his selection of Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed as running mate reflected a deliberate effort to promote inclusion and balance.
Beyond his presidential campaign, the group highlighted Obi’s eight-year tenure as governor of Anambra State, saying his administration focused on fiscal responsibility, education, healthcare and infrastructure while managing public funds prudently.
It referenced awards he received, including “Most Prudent Governor in Nigeria” and “Best Performing Governor on Immunisation.”
The movement concluded that growing youth support for Obi signals a new political consciousness rooted in calls for accountability, transparency and better governance.
It maintained that given Nigeria’s current economic and social difficulties, the country requires a new leadership direction.
“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 statement added.