Five Obidient Leaders Omitted from NDC Campaign Council

Five Obidient Leaders Omitted

On 27 October 2026, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) published the names of its Presidential Campaign Council ahead of the 16 January 2027 election. The list, released over the weekend, did not include five prominent figures from the Obidient Movement, the support group that helped Peter Obi secure a strong showing in the 2023 presidential election.

The omitted individuals are Aisha Yesufu, a party chieftain and political commentator; Isaac Fayose; Moses Paul, known as Dr Mo and former Secretary‑General of the Obidient Movement; Precious Oruche, nicknamed Mama Pee and a grassroots mobiliser; and Peter Akah, popularly called Randy Peter. Their absence has drawn criticism from supporters and social media users.

Background

The Obidient Movement has been a key driver of Peter Obi’s campaign infrastructure. During the 2023 election, the group mobilised voters across the country, contributing to Obi’s rise in the polls. The NDC, formed to support Obi’s 2027 presidential bid, announced its campaign council to outline the leadership structure that will steer the party’s electoral strategy.

The council’s composition was expected to reflect the contributions of the movement’s senior members. However, the omission of the five figures—who were instrumental in the 2023 campaign—was seen as a surprise. The NDC’s decision to exclude them from the council was not accompanied by any explanation in the published list.

Why it Matters

The exclusion of these leaders has prompted a wave of online reactions. Netizens have mocked the decision, particularly targeting Aisha Yesufu. One X user, @JohnFanimoku, suggested that Yesufu would be upset, questioning how she would manage campaign finances if she is not on the council.

Lere Olayinka, who serves as a media assistant to Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, expressed disapproval of the exclusion, suggesting that the NDC’s top brass had failed to recognize a vital ally.

The backlash highlights the importance of the Obidient Movement’s network in shaping Obi’s electoral prospects. The five individuals left out were characterized as political analysts, traditional leaders, past secretaries-general, grassroots organizers, and well-known campaign personalities. Their roles in the 2023 election are cited as having boosted Obi’s support base.

What Happens Next

The sources do not provide any information on how the NDC will respond to the criticism or whether it will alter the council composition. No statements from the party or the omitted individuals are reported, and no further actions are outlined in the available material.