Obidient Movement Outgrows Peter Obi’s Leadership, Says Arise TV Director
Sumner Sambo, Director of News at Arise Television, said the Obidient Movement has grown beyond the personal political ambition of Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
He noted that the former Anambra State governor lacks the leadership capacity the movement now requires.
Sambo compared the movement to the historic Zikist Movement that supported Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe in the 1940s‑50s, suggesting it can endure even if Obi does not win the 2027 presidency.
He quoted, “The Obidient movement is greater than Peter Obi himself. If I were Peter Obi, I would look for a way to structure it above my ambition.”
Sambo identified the absence of a solid political structure as the movement’s biggest challenge.
He explained that many young Nigerians who identify with the Obidient Movement remain passionate about change but lack the organisational framework needed to sustain their momentum.
“The major problem here is the organisational issues we have in politics, and I can tell you it’s a very huge challenge. But there is so much fire in this group of young Nigerians, and they need proper political organisation,” he said.
Sambo expressed doubt that Obi can provide the leadership required to organise the movement effectively, arguing that what supporters seek exceeds Obi’s personal stature.
He cited the resignation of Comrade Isaac Balami, former deputy campaign manager of the Obi/Datti Presidential Campaign Organisation, as evidence of internal discord, noting Balami’s complaints about campaign finance and strategy shortcomings.
Sambo also criticised Obi for failing to convene a post‑election review after the 2023 poll, which deprived supporters of a chance to assess the campaign, rebuild unity and plan the way forward.
He concluded, “After the 2023 elections, Obi did not call for a post‑election analysis meeting to unite this group and keep them engaged.”
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