OK movement not funded by Obi, NDC – DG

The Obi-Kwankwaso Movement asserted on Friday that it operates independently, with no financial backing from either the Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi, or the party itself. Director General John Ughulu clarified this stance in a statement from Abuja, emphasizing that the movement's operational model is grounded in its core principles and values.

Ughulu affirmed that the movement has never required funding from Peter Obi, the NDC presidential candidate, or the party to establish or maintain its organizational structure. The recently launched Presidential Campaign Council, a point of contention among some NDC leaders, remains valid and functional, according to Ughulu. This assertion follows the NDC's announcement of support group registration for the 2027 elections, which has sparked disagreement with some groups supporting Obi's ticket.

The party's National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director, confirmed that registration is free and managed solely by the Directorate of Support Groups at the national headquarters. Ughulu emphasized that the OK Movement is an autonomous political organization, whose leadership does not depend on Obi, his running mate Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso, or the party for financial support.

He argued that the movement's structure and leadership were designed to avoid reliance on Obi, his running mate, Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso, and the party for financial backing. Ughulu pointed out that neither the Nigerian Constitution nor the NDC constitution provides any authority to a political party or its candidate to dictate the internal organizational structure of an independent political organization.

He stressed that while the NDC can establish its own campaign structures, the OK Movement is entitled to manage its affairs within the bounds of applicable law. The movement remains committed to clarity, institutional respect, and the protection of its organizational independence, refusing to be compelled to abandon its principles or identity to accommodate the ambitions or preferences of any individual or group.