A fresh crisis has erupted among supporters of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, following a clash between the OK Movement and leaders of the Obidient Movement over political affiliations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The OK Movement has accused the coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Moses Paul, and the Director-General of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Ibrahim Abdulkarim, of engaging in unnecessary political disputes instead of concentrating on grassroots mobilisation and preparations for the polls.
In a statement on Tuesday, the UK Coordinator of the OK Movement, Adebayo Brown, faulted Paul’s repeated claims that Obi and Kwankwaso had distanced themselves from the organisation.
Brown expressed concern that, with only 76 days to the general elections, political leaders were allegedly spending more time on internal disagreements and arguments over political affiliations than building structures and mobilising supporters.
He questioned how the controversy surrounding the OK Movement would contribute to the electoral fortunes of the NDC or the broader political aspirations of Nigerians ahead of the 2027 elections.
The UK coordinator urged Paul, popularly known as MO, to concentrate on rebuilding and restructuring the Obidient Movement, saying his position required leadership, organisational competence and sustained grassroots engagement.
He argued that the responsibility entrusted to Paul should not be diverted into what he described as unnecessary personal and political disagreements.
The OK Movement also defended its National Director-General, John Ozyl Ughulu, against allegations that his involvement in the organisation was motivated by personal interests.
Describing Ughulu as a successful businessman and advocate of workers’ interests, Brown said he had committed substantial personal resources, time and energy to building the movement.
He maintained that the organisation was founded on principles and a collective vision rather than the personal ambitions of any individual.
Brown also challenged Paul’s authority to speak on behalf of Obi and Kwankwaso, insisting that his position as Obidient coordinator did not automatically empower him to represent the political decisions or views of the two leaders.
He said claims about their relationship with the OK Movement should be backed by clear and verifiable communication from the individuals concerned.
Despite the disagreement, Brown denied that the OK Movement was engaged in an institutional conflict with either the Obidient Movement or the NDC.
He maintained that the groups shared a common democratic challenge and should focus on mobilising Nigerians, strengthening political structures and working towards credible elections in 2027.
Brown further disclosed that the movement had advised Ughulu to ignore the controversy and remain focused on expanding its structures and pursuing its political objectives.
He said the organisation would not allow disagreements with individuals to undermine its commitment to justice, equity, fairness and credible elections.
“The time for division is over. The time to work is now,” he added.
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