The Obidient Movement has launched a strong rebuttal against what it described as calculated propaganda campaigns aimed at discrediting Peter Obi, insisting that the former Labour Party presidential candidate remains focused on accountability, service, and lifting Nigerians out of poverty.

In a lengthy statement posted on X, the group’s national coordinator, Dr Yunusa Tanko, accused paid agents of recycling lies and propaganda to tarnish Obi’s image. He stressed that Nigerians were “wiser now” and capable of distinguishing truth from falsehood.

Tanko clarified the controversy surrounding a December 2024 courtesy visit to elder statesman Afe Babalola, where discussions touched on the defamation case involving activist Dele Farotimi. He said the case was withdrawn following the intervention of the Ooni of Ife, not because Obi pleaded, as critics have claimed.

“Peter Obi does not engage in personal attacks, nor does he condone them,” Tanko wrote. He added that Obi had only expressed concern about the activist’s arrest and detention, while maintaining his long-standing principle of channelling resources into education, healthcare, and youth empowerment rather than inducements or patronage politics.

The statement also pushed back against allegations linking Obi to the controversial “Yes Daddy” audio leak and an alleged anti-Lagos WhatsApp broadcast. Tanko insisted there was “no credible evidence” connecting Obi or his associates to such incidents.

Turning to the economy, Tanko cited fresh data from the Debt Management Office showing Nigeria’s debt rose to N149.38 trillion in the first quarter of 2025, up from N144.67 trillion at the end of 2024, accusing opponents of twisting facts to suit false narratives.

“Their words carry no weight among Nigerians who are tired of deceit, corruption and manipulation,” he said. Dragging Obi’s name is only an attempt to gain attention.”

Tanko concluded that the Obidient Movement would continue to stand for truth over propaganda, service over selfishness, and facts over fabrications. (The Guardian)