The National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Alhaji Yunusa Tanko, has defended the alleged defection of Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
He described the decision as a response to a treacherous political environment in Nigeria.
Tanko said the situation around party structures and court timelines created serious limits for political participation. He added that the development was not isolated but part of wider struggles within the opposition space.
Speaking in an interview with ARISE NEWS on Monday, he said legal processes around party disputes and election timelines made it difficult for some candidates to proceed smoothly.
He also argued that the short window between court rulings and electoral deadlines created pressure that shaped recent political decisions.
“There is a toxic situation in our political system, but it was not directed at the ADC. So for Peter Obi and Engineer Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and others, they have taken a courageous step that needs to be applauded so that Nigerian democracy will not die. This is the most important part of our current situation,” he stated.
Legal Timelines And Political Pressure
Tanko explained that court processes and election deadlines created a narrow path for candidates. He said this situation affected planning and participation in party structures.
He referenced Supreme Court decisions and Federal High Court processes, noting that the time left before submission deadlines made full legal resolution difficult.
He added that between May 4 and May 10, only a few working days remained, which he said was not enough for full adjudication and appeals.
“Remember that attempts have been made to gag His Excellency Mr. Peter Obi, denying him the opportunity to run for elections under almost any political party…” he said.
He further argued that the situation created what he described as a political “trap” for participation within the available timeframe.
Allegations Of Political Targeting
Tanko also alleged that Obi had faced repeated challenges across different political platforms. He claimed this pattern showed deliberate political interference.
He said Obi’s movement between parties was not about ambition but survival within Nigeria’s political system.
“The government of the day has found itself completely involved in all the political parties, trying to deny His Excellency Mr. Peter Obi from running for office…” he said.
He further insisted that Obi remained committed to national unity and political reform, not personal advantage.
Tanko added that growing alliances, including support from northern political figures like Kwankwaso, reflected increasing national cooperation ahead of future elections.
He concluded that the political shift signalled a search for unity and stability within opposition politics.
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