Loyalists of former presidential candidates Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso has unveiled the Obi–Kwankwaso (OK) Movement, in a calculated bid to influence the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 elections.
The group, announced in Abuja, is positioning itself as a unifying structure for multiple political tendencies, drawing from the Obidient Movement, Kwankwasiyya network, the New Nigeria People’s Party, and elements within the ADC.
Spokesman of the movement, Justin Ijeh, said the coalition has already spread across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, with coordinators appointed to drive mobilisation at both state and zonal levels.
Rather than a routine political group, the OK Movement is being framed by its promoters as a structured intervention in the unfolding contest for the ADC presidential ticket, where multiple heavyweights are already jostling for influence.
“Nigeria stands at a defining crossroads. Today, as our people endure the weight of unprecedented economic hardship, the soaring cost of living, and the persistent shadow of insecurity, the Obi–Kwankwaso (OK) Movement formally announces the unveiling of its national and state structures.
“This is more than a political milestone; it is the birth of a coordinated, nationwide engine for systemic reform and national rebirth.
“We recognise the exhaustion felt in every Nigerian household. Yet, in this moment of darkness, the OK Movement stands as a beacon of resolute hope.
“The movement is a home for all well-meaning Nigerians. We reject the politics of tribalism, regionalism, and religious sentiment that have long been used to keep our people divided while the nation falters.”
He added that the group’s rollout would continue in phases, with formal inauguration of state chapters expected soon.
“In the coming weeks, the official inauguration of our state chapters will commence across the federation.
“This is an open invitation to every Nigerian who believes that our current reality need not be our final destiny.
“Through solidarity, purposeful leadership, and the courage to demand better, we will prevail.
“The structures are set, the vision clear, the movement is here and together, we will make Nigeria OK,” he noted.
Insiders say the initiative reflects ongoing efforts to harmonise support bases around a possible joint ticket, a claim reinforced by Yunusa Tanko, who dismissed suggestions of fragmentation within Obi’s political camp.
“Yes, Ijeh and others are some of our people. There is no division. Both the OK Movement and The Village Boys Movement are working for the same purpose,” he said.
The development adds a new layer to the internal dynamics of the ADC, currently led by David Mark, where the race for the presidential ticket is becoming increasingly competitive.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has already declared his intention to contest and ruled out stepping down for any aspirant, a stance that has unsettled other blocs within the coalition.
Other prominent figures linked to the contest include Rotimi Amaechi and Aminu Tambuwal, alongside Obi and Kwankwaso, while political heavyweights such as Nasir El-Rufai and Abubakar Malami have also been associated with the party’s growing coalition.
Meanwhile, the Labour Party Nigeria has disowned viral social media messages urging Obi and Kwankwaso to return to its fold. The party, under its interim national chairman Nenadi Usman, described the posts as unauthorised and not issued by its leadership.