The Obedient Movement has called on Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, to join the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the party they say accommodates their leader, Mr. Peter Obi, and other well-meaning Nigerian politicians, in order to build a united political front and avoid a divided block vote.
The call was made during a press conference held in Umuahia, where the group also appealed to Abia citizens, civil society organisations and the media to resist what it described as blackmail and coordinated attacks against the governor. The movement urged stakeholders to unite in protecting the gains recorded by the present administration, while encouraging the governor to address areas that still require attention.
Reading the resolutions, the spokesman of the movement, Dr. Chibuzo Obiesili, who was flanked by Prince Solomon, Elder Nwokeoma, Barrister Chinedum Ogbonna, Iheanyi Ezengwa and others, raised concerns about the future of ADC, especially in the context of possible primary elections involving Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi and other aspirants.
The group said the press conference was convened in response to what it described as growing political distractions and orchestrated attacks against Governor Otti.
According to the movement, reports have emerged of a meeting involving three former governors of Abia State and some of their former commissioners, allegedly convened by Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, with the aim of unseating Governor Otti in the 2027 general election and reclaiming the state for the APC.
They alleged that the meeting was followed by public statements suggesting that Governor Otti would serve only one term, a development they described as an affront to the will of Abia people.
The Obedient Movement maintained that Governor Otti was elected on the clear mandate of Abians, with significant support from the “Obedient tsunami,” to clean up the state and reposition it for development. They said that since assuming office, the governor has demonstrated that Abia can be better through people-oriented projects, restoring pride to the state.
The group recalled what it described as the poor state of affairs under previous administrations, accusing them of heartless governance and reckless looting of the state treasury. They said the Obedient Movement played a critical role in mobilising support for change and would not remain silent in the face of attempts by “failed individuals” to stage a political comeback.
While admitting that the Otti administration has not fully integrated members of the Obedient Movement into government, the group said its support for the governor remains firm because of his people-focused policies and delivery of democratic dividends to the masses.
The movement called on well-meaning Abians to reject what it described as political actors posing as sycophants to the president and seeking to undermine the state for personal gain. It also warned that Abia people are enlightened, vigilant and fully aware of the difference between the present administration and past leadership.
They concluded by urging Governor Otti to remain steadfast, focused and committed to delivering on his mandate to the people of Abia State.
