Politics

Obidient Movement Protests Marginalization in ADC Alliance

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on August 4th, 2025.

The Obidient Movement — a politically active bloc of young, progressive Nigerians who rallied behind Peter Obi during the 2023 presidential elections — has accused the ADC leadership of sidelining its members despite their significant contributions to the party’s visibility and grassroots mobilization.

In a statement released over the weekend, spokespersons for the movement lamented what they described as a “calculated effort to silence and discredit voices pushing for transparency, accountability, and people-centered governance.”

“We joined the ADC alliance in good faith, believing in its promises of inclusive politics, youth empowerment, and a break from the old order,” the statement read. “But what we have witnessed is a systemic pattern of exclusion and tokenism that does not reflect the values we represent.”

Sources within the party allege that tensions began when Obidient-aligned members were left out of key strategy meetings and denied roles in the planning committees ahead of the party’s upcoming national convention. Several members have also raised concerns over the lack of transparency in the allocation of internal party positions and electoral support.

Party insiders suggest the friction may stem from ideological differences, with the Obidient Movement’s reformist posture clashing with more traditional elements within the ADC.

Despite the brewing tension, the ADC leadership has downplayed the allegations. In a brief response, a senior party official stated that the coalition “remains united” and that “all grievances will be addressed through internal mechanisms.”

However, activists within the Obidient Movement say they are no longer convinced. Some have begun to call for a reevaluation of their alliance with the ADC, warning that continued marginalization could force them to seek alternative political platforms.

“We are not in politics to warm seats or rubber-stamp outdated systems,” said Chioma Okafor, a youth leader in the movement. “Our loyalty is to the Nigerian people, not to party structures that refuse to evolve.”

As Nigeria approaches another election cycle, the fallout from these tensions could reshape alliances and influence voter sentiment among a growing demographic of politically conscious youth. The Obidient Movement’s next steps may very well determine whether its vision for transformative politics remains within the ADC — or takes a differ

ent path altogether.