The National Coordinator of the Obedient Movement, Yunusa Tanko Yakasai, has publicly called on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to step back from contesting the 2027 presidential ticket under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and instead "anoint" or endorse Peter Obi as the party's sole flagbearer.
Key Details from Yakasai's Statement
The Call: Speaking on TVC's Politics program (aired February 1, 2026), Yakasai urged Atiku to support Obi for the ADC presidential ticket, describing it as a strategic move to maximize the opposition's chances against President Bola Tinubu and the APC. He emphasized Atiku's role as a "leader and father" who would not engage in divisive tactics.
Rationale: Yakasai argued that Atiku has the right to run but also the right to back a stronger candidate if it improves victory prospects. He dismissed fears that Atiku would block Obi's path, stating: "Atiku Abubakar is a leader, he is a father. He will not even join in that shenanigan."
Obedient Stance: The coordinator reiterated the movement's firm position: "It is OBI as presidential candidate or nothing." He stressed that 2027 differs from 2019/2023 dynamics, insisting Obi will not accept a vice-presidential role under Atiku again.
ADC as Opposition Platform: The ADC has become the main vehicle for anti-Tinubu forces after Atiku (from PDP), Obi (from LP), and others like Rotimi Amaechi and Nasir el-Rufai joined or aligned with it in 2025. Atiku picked up his membership card earlier, while Obi officially joined in late December 2025.
Ticket Battle: Tensions persist over the presidential ticket. Atiku has repeatedly rejected calls to step aside, insisting on open, competitive primaries with "no one stepping down." He has described any pressure on him as a threat to democracy and a boon to the ruling APC.
Obi's Position: Obi has not publicly demanded Atiku withdraw but his supporters (Obedient) have been vocal against him settling for VP. Zoning debates (North vs. South) and rotation promises remain unresolved flashpoints.
Party Response: ADC leaders have cautioned against divisive rhetoric that could fracture the coalition ahead of primaries (expected around June 2026).
Reactions and Implications
Supporters: Obedient voices on social media praised Yakasai's statement as principled and forward-looking, with some tagging Atiku to "do the needful." Others see it as pressure to avoid repeating 2023's vote-splitting.
Atiku Camp: No direct response yet to Yakasai's latest plea, but past statements from Atiku and aides (e.g., Paul Ibe) firmly oppose forced withdrawals, framing them as undemocratic.
Political Stakes: With the ADC aiming to unite opposition votes that were divided in 2023 (Atiku ~29%, Obi ~25%), a consensus ticket could strengthen their challenge. Failure to resolve Atiku-Obi dynamics risks internal chaos or another fragmented run.
This latest intervention from a key Obedient figure highlights ongoing jockeying within the ADC coalition as 2027 approaches. The story is evolving, with potential for more calls, counter-statements, or negotiations ahead of party primaries.
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