Obidient Movement appoints new coordinator, as Tanko becomes Obi’s aide on northern Nigeria

The Obidient Movement has appointed Dr. Moses Paul as its new National Coordinator, with the immediate past coordinator, Dr. Yunusa Tanko, reassigned as Special Adviser to the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, on Northern Nigeria.

A statement by Mr Onyeka Dike for the Media and Communications Directorate of the movement, disclosed that the new leadership arrangement was announced by Obi during a virtual meeting with national leaders and state coordinators of the Obidient Movement on Wednesday.

Tanko, who served as National Coordinator for three years, is expected to lead mobilisation efforts aimed at strengthening the Obi-Kwankwaso presidential campaign and grassroots engagement across Northern Nigeria.

Speaking during the meeting, Tanko expressed appreciation to the leadership and members of the Movement for their support, while highlighting the structures established during his tenure.

He said: “A central focus of my leadership over the last two years was strengthening the Movement’s organisational structure and institutional framework.

“We established a National Advisory Council to deepen strategic engagement and to move the Movement beyond election-cycle activism towards a lasting institution.”

He added that the Movement expanded its presence to all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, while establishing five regional coordinators and a regional collegiate council.

He also cited the development of grassroots structures across the 37 state coordination areas and 774 local government areas, as well as the creation of the Obidient Movement’s digital mobilisation platform.

According to him, the Movement also developed an IReV-related election-results monitoring system designed to provide real-time updates from polling units across the country and expanded its engagement with communities, stakeholders and support groups.

Leaders of the Movement commended Tanko for what they described as his collaborative and open-door leadership and his contribution to building the organisation.

Following the meeting, Obi announced the appointment of Tanko as Special Adviser on Northern Nigeria, while Moses Paul was named the new National Coordinator.

Paul, in his acceptance remarks, pledged to build on the foundation laid by Tanko, stressing that the Movement belonged to citizens rather than individuals.

“With grace, humility, courage and determination, I accept the appointment to serve as National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement. Dr. Tanko’s shoes are quite big, so I will need your prayers and support to move the Movement forward.

“We have to continue building with determination, knowing that a New Nigeria is possible,” he said.

Paul also reaffirmed the Movement’s commitment to people-centred leadership, national unity, accountability and creating a Nigeria where citizens can thrive.

The Movement said the new leadership arrangement was expected to strengthen its structures and deepen grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.