By Swill Mavua.
The Obidients movement, led by Peter Obi, has been a force to reckon within Nigerian politics since the 2023 presidential elections. Despite being dismissed as a fringe group with no grassroots support, the Obidients pulled off a remarkable performance, which many believe would have resulted in victory if not for alleged rigging. As the 2027 elections approach, the question on everyone’s mind is: can Obi and the Obidients replicate their 2023 feat?
The 2023 presidential elections marked a significant turning point in Nigerian politics. The Obidients movement, despite being ridiculed as “four persons tweeting in a room,” proved to be a formidable force, garnering significant support across the country. Their performance was all the more impressive given the lack of effective structure at the polling units and collation centers, which many believe cost them the election.
The allegations of rigging in the 2023 elections are well-documented. In several states, including Rivers, there were reports of Labour Party votes being allocated to the APC. These allegations have further eroded trust in the electoral process and highlighted the need for reform.
The Obidients movement learnt valuable lessons from the 2023 elections. One of the key takeaways was the importance of having a strong grassroots structure that can monitor and report on the electoral process. This would help to prevent manipulation and ensure that the votes of supporters are accurately reflected in the results.
In preparation for the 2027 elections, Obi has been shopping for a formidable platform to launch his campaign. His recent membership in the ADC coalition has been welcomed by many, but the question remains whether he will be the flag bearer at the polls. Additionally, there are rumors that the PDP is open to accepting him as their presidential candidate. These developments are encouraging, but the Obidients movement must do more to build on their 2023 momentum.
To improve on their 2023 performance, the Obidients movement needs to embark on an aggressive recruitment drive, targeting youths who are eager for change. These youths must be educated about the stakes and the importance of their participation in the electoral process. It’s not enough to simply cast their votes; they must be empowered to defend their votes and ensure that the results are accurately reflected at every stage of the electoral process.
The Obidients movement must build a strong grassroots structure that can mobilize and educate supporters. This would involve establishing a network of activists and volunteers who can work at the local level to promote the movement’s agenda and monitor the electoral process.
The Obidients movement must take 2027 as the year of salvation for Nigeria’s youths. If they fail to seize this opportunity, their future looks bleak. The movement must galvanize the youths and inspire them to take ownership of their destiny. By doing so, they can build a grassroots movement that will be difficult to ignore or manipulate.
The road to 2027 will be challenging, and the Obidients movement will face numerous obstacles. They will need to navigate the complex web of Nigerian politics, build alliances, and mobilize supporters. However, with determination and a clear vision, they can overcome these challenges and achieve their goal of building a better Nigeria.
The movement has shown that it is a force to be reckoned with in Nigerian politics. With the right strategy and determination, they can replicate and even improve on their 2023 performance. By building a strong grassroots movement, mobilizing youths, and promoting their agenda, they can create a new political reality in Nigeria. The fate of the country’s youths hangs in the balance, and it’s up to the Obidients to seize this moment and shape the future of Nigeria.
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