Tanko: Obi to serve one term, return power to North in 2031
Dr. Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obedient Movement Worldwide, has affirmed that Peter Obi remains a top contender for Nigeria's 2027 presidency and will not serve as running mate to anyone in the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Tanko reiterated Obi's one-term pledge, stating that if elected in 2027, Obi would complete the South's remaining four-year term and return power to the North by 2031. "This demonstrates credibility and national unity," Tanko said on Eagle 102.5 FM's Frontline programme, monitored by The Guardian.
Tanko dismissed speculation that the ADC is controlled by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, emphasizing that the coalition was contributed to by multiple groups with their own resources. "Nobody owns that political party," he stated, clarifying that he is focused solely on selling Obi's capacity and credibility to Nigerians. Obi officially joined the ADC coalition ahead of 2027, with Tanko describing the move as a people-driven strategy following extensive consultations.
The movement's priorities under Obi would include economic discipline, national security, agricultural investment, and sustainable fuel subsidy management. Tanko stressed that Obi's approach would involve interfacing with Nigerians first, then the international community to secure respect for the country. He defended Obi's shift from Labour Party, citing deliberate structural sabotage by "forces in power" that made remaining unsafe. Tanko rated Obi's chances of securing the ADC ticket at "ten over ten," noting his unblemished record, data-driven arguments, and recognition by the international community as a credible driver of economic reform.