Tanko was confident of Obi’s chances in securing the ADC ticket, rating it “ten over ten.”

Dr. Yunusa Tanko

National Coordinator of the Obedient Movement Worldwide, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, has affirmed that Peter Obi will not serve as a running mate to any politician within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), emphasizing that Obi remains a leading contender for Nigeria’s presidency in 2027.

Speaking on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, on Monday, Tanko dismissed speculation that the ADC is under the influence of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, stressing that “everybody that was in that particular coalition contributed to that particular coalition with their hard-earned money… nobody owns that political party, please, and please, don’t get it wrong.”

Tanko added, “I am only focusing on my candidate. I’m selling my candidate to the public based on his capacity and credibility and what he has to offer Nigerians. That’s all.” He described Obi as a candidate capable of delivering what the Obedient Movement calls a “moral solution” to the country’s leadership challenges.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in 2023, officially joined the coalition-backed ADC ahead of the 2027 election. The former Anambra governor said his defection aims to transform and rescue Nigeria. On policy priorities, Tanko outlined that Obi’s administration would focus on economic discipline, national security, and investment in agriculture while ensuring that fuel subsidies are managed sustainably. “Somebody who is concerned about the public will not tax them beyond their reach,” he said.

Tanko also highlighted Obi’s approach to foreign policy, noting that “the people of Nigeria are the ones that Mr. Peter Obi will play as a gentle. And then he will also link up with the international community to ensure that they’ve got that particular respect they desire.”

ADC ALIGNMENT

He emphasized that Obi’s alignment with the ADC followed extensive consultations, reflecting a people-driven strategy rather than personal ambition. “The decision to align with the ADC came from a conglomerate of diverse groups seeking to correct Nigeria’s problems and reclaim the country for its people. When they came together, the ADC was chosen as the political vehicle. Ordinarily, Peter Obi would flow with the people who are calling for him,” Tanko explained. He described the young Nigerians involved in the process as “the deciders” in determining Obi’s political path.

OBI NOT A NOMADIC POLITICIANS, CIRCUMSTANCES CALLS FOR CHANGE

Responding to criticisms of Obi’s move from the Labour Party, Tanko said structural challenges within the party necessitated the shift. “Forces in power deliberately undermined the party’s functionality. If your house is being deliberately set on fire, would you remain inside it? There was a calculated attempt to destroy what was being built,” he said, noting that the ADC provides a larger platform capable of accommodating diverse political interests. “Politics is a game of numbers, and that larger coalition was already evident in this grouping.”

2027 TICKET

Tanko was confident of Obi’s chances in securing the ADC ticket, rating it “ten over ten.” He emphasized that Obi’s chances are measured on his own viability and electability: “Politics has no permanent enemies, only permanent interests. The interest here is good governance, and Peter Obi represents that.” He highlighted Obi’s unblemished record, saying, “No corruption has been found against him. His credentials have been scrutinized. His data-driven arguments have largely been validated. The international community views him as a credible driver of economic reform.”

Addressing claims that Obi’s ADC alignment signals desperation, Tanko said, “He has never been desperate. If he were, he would have imposed himself on a party. Instead, he followed the people. He is the people’s choice.” He also clarified that Obi’s one-term pledge is a promise to Nigerians, not just a political party: “If elected in 2027, Peter Obi would complete the remaining four years for the South and return power to the North. This demonstrates credibility and national unity.”

ADC-OBI PHILOSOPHY

Tanko addressed concerns about coalition dynamics and potential friction with older political actors, asserting that the ADC can accommodate Obi’s political philosophy. “Politics is really dynamic… you need everybody to work together to achieve your set objectives. The coalition includes younger leaders like Omoyele Sowore as well as experienced figures who bring expertise to the table,” he said.

On policy direction, Tanko outlined Obi’s people-focused agenda: “People-driven governance, responsible taxation, alternative economic strategies, security, agriculture-led growth, and data-driven decision-making. This country has been impoverished by corruption, reckless borrowing, and mismanagement. Peter Obi represents a clear departure from that failure. He will never engage in any policy that will be anti-people. That is one thing I can guarantee.”