• Pact struck hours after Peter Obi’s declaration
• Leaders cite “robust talks” on structure, values, 2027 strategy
• Coalition vows disciplined mobilisation, credible candidates
The Ogun State chapter of the Obidient Movement has entered into a strategic alliance with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following what both sides described as robust and fruitful discussions held in Abeokuta.
The alliance was sealed just hours after the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, made a political declaration that triggered fresh realignments within Nigeria’s opposition space.
Political observers see the swift development as a major boost to opposition consolidation in Ogun State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The closed-door meeting brought together leaders of the Obidient Movement, led by its State Coordinator, Hon. Obaloluwa Arewa, and top officials of the ADC at both zonal and state levels.
Those in attendance included the ADC South-West Zonal Chairman, Hon. Rasak Eyiowuawi; the Ogun State Chairman, Otunba Dr. Femi Soluade; the State Secretary, Hon. Olusoji; Dr. Tunde Soaga, alongside other party executives.
Sources said deliberations focused on shared ideology, organisational structure, grassroots mobilisation, and the development of a joint political roadmap towards 2027.
Speaking after the meeting, Otunba Dr. Femi Soluade described the engagement as more than a ceremonial reception.
“Today is not just a welcome ceremony; it is a strategic session,” Soluade said. “We had robust discussions on structure, philosophy and the pathway to 2027. We are not merely integrating members; we are merging missions.”
He commended the Obidient Movement for what he described as its speed, discipline and clarity of purpose, noting that the alliance would significantly strengthen ADC’s reach across Ogun State.
Dr. Soluade stressed the need for unity and warned against factionalism, insisting that all new entrants must align strictly with ADC’s core values and organisational culture.
He explained that the party’s traditional handshake symbol represents prosperity for all, unity of purpose and collective progress across the nation.
The ADC chairman also acknowledged that the Obidient Movement joined a growing list of political groups and associations that have already been absorbed into the party, including factions of the PDP, NNPP, SDP, Labour Party elements, OMOLUWABI groups, as well as religious and civil associations.
He advised members of the Obidient Movement to immediately integrate with ADC structures across the 20 local government areas and wards in the state to ensure visibility and effective coordination.
In his remarks, the ADC South-West Zonal Chairman, Hon. Rasak Eyiowuawi, described the alliance as a new model of disciplined political collaboration.
“What we are witnessing here is a template for modern political consolidation,” he said.
“The Obidient Movement waited for their principal’s signal and moved with focus and purpose.”
According to him, the discussions established a strong foundation of trust and produced a clear operational framework for joint political action.
“This fellowship is open, but it is also strategic and deliberate,” Eyiowuawi added.
Speaking on behalf of the Obidient Movement, Hon. Obaloluwa Arewa said the group was fully prepared to translate political enthusiasm into concrete action.
“Our dialogue was comprehensive,” Arewa stated.
“We are united in promoting only candidates with proven capacity, competence and character.”
He stressed that the alliance was driven by performance and leadership delivery, not sentiment.
“Ogun State is ready to lead this action,” he added.
The Secretary of the Obidient Movement in Ogun State, Mr. Kareem Owolabi, said the talks reassured members that the partnership would be anchored on equality and shared objectives.
“We came to ensure that the energy of our people is properly channelled,” Owolabi said.
“What we have here is a partnership of equals, focused on tangible results, not political symbolism.”
Another delegate, Coach Fagbemi, emphasised the importance of data-driven campaigns and sustained community engagement.
“Our strength lies in our numbers and unity,” he said.
“We will work ward by ward and district by district to secure victory for our principal, Peter Obi, and for all ADC candidates who meet our shared standards.”
Adding a strong grassroots perspective, Comrade Unique Adebayo highlighted voter education and mobilisation as key priorities ahead of the polls.
“The people are ready for a new dawn,” Adebayo said. “Our task is to convert this energy into votes through education, media engagement and massive turnout.”
He pledged that the movement would deploy all lawful means to ensure success at the polls in 2027.
Political analysts say the alliance could significantly alter Ogun State’s political landscape by combining ADC’s party structure with the Obidient Movement’s largely youth-driven grassroots network.
They note that if sustained, the coalition could pose a serious challenge to dominant political forces in the state.
The meeting concluded with both groups reaffirming their commitment to unity, discipline and issue-based politics as preparations for the 2027 general elections begin in earnest.
