The National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, has defended the recent move by Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to the National Democratic Congress (NDC), describing it as necessary to protect Nigeria’s democracy.
According to a report by Arise News on Monday, May 4, 2026, Tanko explained that the political environment had become too difficult for both leaders to remain in their previous party. According to him, legal challenges and limited time before election deadlines made it almost impossible for them to properly secure their candidacy.
He said the situation forced them to act quickly in order to stay relevant in the political process and continue offering Nigerians an alternative choice.
Tanko also dismissed claims that Obi left to avoid competition, insisting the decision was based on clear political realities rather than fear of rivals. He argued that Obi has faced repeated obstacles across different parties, suggesting a pattern of interference aimed at stopping him from contesting.
Speaking on national unity, Tanko highlighted Kwankwaso’s support for Obi as a major development. He said the partnership could attract strong backing from Northern Nigeria, possibly bringing together support from many states in the region.
According to him, this growing alliance shows a chance for better cooperation between the North and South, which could strengthen the opposition ahead of future elections.
In his words, “Today, we have one of the biggest and most resilient personalities in the name of His Excellency Engineer Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso joining and agreeing to serve with Mr. Peter Obi. That means you can have at least 19 to 20 Northern states coming in en masse to work together with him.”…Read_More…