The Obidient Movement has suspended its recently announced public donation drive, following widespread backlash over plans for a nationwide rally to mark the 64th birthday of former presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi.
Earlier reports had revealed that the movement intended to stage rallies across the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory on July 19, in what was described as a national birthday celebration in honour of Obi.
To finance the event, the organisers had unveiled four designated bank accounts managed by three individuals: Serah Ibrahim, Ezeokoli Blessing, and John Alor.
However, the announcement was met with criticism from members of the public, who questioned the rationale behind seeking funds for a birthday rally amid growing economic hardship.
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Concerns were also raised about transparency, the necessity of the donations, and the potential diversion from the movement’s core values.
Responding to the feedback, the leadership of the Obidient Movement on Tuesday announced the immediate suspension of all donation activities related to the event.
In a statement signed by National Coordinator Dr. Yunusa Tanko, Director of Mobilisation Morris Monye, and Director of Strategic Communications and Media Nana Kazaure, the group apologised for the earlier communication.
“We have received feedback and concerns regarding the recent announcement of donation accounts of the July 19 rally as a birthday celebration for H.E Peter Obi,” the statement read in part.
“We acknowledge that the release of donation account details and communication without adequate context may have created confusion and raised concerns.
“We take full responsibility for that and we sincerely apologise too.”
Rather than celebrating with fanfare, the movement said the July 19 event would now serve as a day of civic engagement, charity, and political advocacy. Supporters were encouraged to channel their time and resources towards uplifting vulnerable Nigerians, in line with the values Obi has come to symbolise.
Clarifying the intention behind the rally, the organisers introduced the theme for the day: “From Compassion to Purpose: Obidients in Action for a New Possible Nigeria.”
According to the group, the rally will be “a people-powered day of service, mobilisation, and political awakening” across the country, where citizens will “feed the hungry, visit the sick, assist the less privileged, engage with grassroots communities, and raise political consciousness.”
A major highlight of the event, the movement noted, would be the push for electoral reform, anchored on the campaign tagged #PassOurINECReform. Participants will use the opportunity to call on the National Assembly and relevant stakeholders to prioritise and fast-track amendments to Nigeria’s electoral laws.
“The July 19th National Birthday Rally is a day of national reflection, civic action, and a recommitment to the values that brought us together as a movement,” the statement said.
The leadership further explained that although Obi’s character and principles continue to drive the movement, the event is not centred solely on him.
“While H.E Peter Obi’s integrity and values have inspired this movement, the rally is not necessarily about celebrating an individual alone. It is also about confronting our national crisis with the values H.E Peter Obi represents, which are discipline, empathy, accountability, and a deep commitment to the common good.”
They promised better coordination and clearer messaging in future initiatives.
“This rally is for every Nigerian who believes that this country can still work and who is willing to take action to make it so.
“Let us gather for introspection not to only cheer, but to reflect not for entertainment, but for engagement and encouragement to commit to a mission,” the statement concluded.
