The Obidient Movement is responding strongly to recent comments attributed to retired Justice Isa Salami, which question the eligibility of Peter Obi to contest the 2023 presidential election under the Labour Party.
The group describes the remarks as misleading and inconsistent with established legal decisions. According to Mediaplusng.com, the movement insists that all issues surrounding Peter Obi’s candidacy have already been resolved through due judicial processes.
In a statement issued by Dr. Tanko Yunusa on behalf of the Obidient Movement, the group emphasizes its commitment to truth, justice, and the rule of law, while rejecting any narrative that seeks to reopen settled legal matters.
It maintains that the Supreme Court, as the highest judicial authority in Nigeria, has already ruled on matters relating to Peter Obi’s qualification and party membership, effectively putting to rest any legal disputes on the issue.
According to the statement, the courts thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding Obi’s candidacy and do not find grounds to disqualify him based on his membership of the Labour Party.
The Obidient Movement also highlights that political party membership is considered an internal affair, governed by the rules and discretion of each political party.
The Labour Party, according to the group, accepts Peter Obi as a member, grants him a waiver, and duly submits his name to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, in line with electoral guidelines.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the movement argues that no external authority has the legal standing to challenge a party’s internal decisions regarding membership once due procedures are followed.
The timing of the comments by the retired jurist is also questioned by the group, which notes that the 2023 elections have concluded and all related judicial proceedings have been exhausted.
The movement asks why such claims are being revisited at this stage, suggesting that reopening settled issues may create unnecessary confusion in the public space.
In addition, the statement calls attention to broader concerns raised by Justice Salami himself regarding the state of the judiciary, including issues of competence and systemic challenges.
The Obidient Movement argues that national attention should instead be directed toward judicial reforms aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability, and efficiency within the legal system.
The group also addresses what it describes as factual inaccuracies, clarifying that Peter Obi does not participate in the Peoples Democratic Party primaries prior to his move to the Labour Party.
It further highlights Obi’s track record in both the private and public sectors, pointing to his tenure as governor of Anambra State and his reputation for fiscal management and accountability.
The Obidient Movement states that Obi’s public image is built on integrity, competence, and a history free from criminal allegations, which it says continues to resonate with many Nigerians.
Reaffirming its stance, the group declares that Peter Obi’s candidacy in the 2023 election remains valid and legitimate, backed by legal authority and public support.
The movement also reiterates its broader vision of promoting good governance, accountability, and institutional reform as part of its advocacy for a “New Nigeria.”
Members are encouraged to remain peaceful, focused, and committed to democratic principles, despite ongoing political debates and differing opinions.
The Obidient Movement concludes that retrospective opinions without legal backing should not distract from the pursuit of national development and democratic consolidation.
As political discourse continues to evolve, analysts note that such exchanges reflect ongoing tensions around electoral processes, legal interpretations, and public trust in democratic institutions in Nigeria.
