The Obidient Movement has strongly criticized the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, over his continued public references to Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

The group accused the former Rivers State governor of using Obi’s name as a political distraction and questioned his commitment to governance in the nation’s capital.

In a statement released on Thursday, spokesperson of the Obidient Movement, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, said Wike’s remarks about Obi have become frequent and unnecessary, suggesting that the minister is more focused on political showmanship than on delivering infrastructural and social development to residents of the FCT.

“How will he sell his market if he does not mention Peter Obi?” Dr. Tanko remarked pointedly, alleging that Wike has turned his media engagements into “platforms for political deflection” rather than accountability sessions.

Wike’s Remarks Spark Response

The criticism follows recent comments made by Wike, in which he cautioned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against accepting Peter Obi back into the party, warning that such a move could trigger internal strife and complicate the party’s strategy for the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at a media event in Abuja, Wike had downplayed Obi’s influence, stating that the former Anambra governor’s return to PDP would not guarantee electoral success and could destabilize the party’s already fragile unity.

“We must be careful about those who want to return to the party simply to advance their personal ambitions,” Wike was quoted as saying.

Obidient Movement: “Focus on Governance”

The Obidient Movement, a grassroots political coalition that rose to national prominence during the 2023 elections in support of Obi, said the FCT minister’s priorities appear misplaced.

“Instead of addressing pressing issues such as housing, urban development, and transport infrastructure in Abuja, he is investing time and government resources into political commentary,” Tanko added.

The group said it views Wike’s repeated criticism as a diversion from real governance, suggesting that the minister is using Obi’s name to stay politically relevant.

Political Undercurrents

Political analysts say the ongoing friction between Wike and Obi’s supporters is emblematic of deeper divisions within Nigeria’s opposition space.

Wike, a key figure in the PDP’s G5 bloc, has maintained a vocal stance against Obi since the 2023 elections, when the latter defected from the PDP to contest under the Labour Party.

The Obidient Movement has since transformed from a campaign group into an enduring political force, especially among urban youth and first-time voters.

Also Read: Peter Obi Will Not Contest 2027 Presidential Election – LP

“This isn’t just about Wike and Obi,” said Lagos-based political analyst Chika Okoye. “It’s a fight for who controls the narrative ahead of 2027, and Wike knows Obi still commands a loyal base.”

Looking Ahead to 2027

With the next general elections less than two years away, the political climate is heating up. While Peter Obi has yet to officially declare his intention to run again, speculation is growing over potential alliances and defections that could reshape Nigeria’s political map.

The Obidient Movement reiterated its commitment to issue-based politics and called on public officials to focus on service delivery.

“We urge the Minister to prioritize his responsibilities to the people of Abuja. Leadership should be measured by impact, not media soundbites,” the statement concluded.