Supporters of the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi—popularly known as the “Obidients”—have called on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to forgo any presidential ambition in 2027 and instead back Obi’s candidacy under the proposed coalition platform, the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The appeal was made during a series of rallies held across Abia State on Friday to commemorate Obi’s 64th birthday. The “One Million-Man March for Obi” took place simultaneously in Umuahia, Aba, Ohafia, and Uzuakoli, drawing crowds of passionate supporters from various parts of the state.

Speaking to journalists in Umuahia, the Chairman of the Organising Committee and one of the Obidient movement’s state coordinators, Dr. Chibuzor Obiesili, praised Atiku for his previous efforts toward national development but urged him to support Obi for the good of Nigeria.

“We deeply appreciate Alhaji Atiku Abubakar’s contributions and sacrifices for Nigeria,” Obiesili said. “But we strongly appeal to him to step aside in 2027 and allow Mr. Peter Obi to lead the coalition. His greatest gift to the country at this point would be to support a candidate with the integrity, competence, and national appeal that Obi represents.”

Obiesili also commended the ongoing efforts to build a united opposition coalition against the re-election bid of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He, however, advised that the coalition’s presidential ticket be zoned to the South, noting that Obi embodies the qualities needed to galvanize national support and challenge the ruling party effectively.

“We believe Obi has the track record and national acceptability to pull Nigeria out of its current economic and governance crisis,” he added. “He is a man of character, integrity, and compassion—qualities Nigeria urgently needs.”

On the significance of the birthday rallies, Obiesili emphasized that they were purely voluntary and driven by the values Obi stands for.

“Obi’s consistent advocacy for the poor and marginalized has won him admirers across religious, ethnic, and political divides,” he said. “His lifestyle and passion for good governance are worth celebrating. We haven’t seen a politician in Nigeria today as clean and transparent as Peter Obi. If one emerges tomorrow, we’ll celebrate them too but for now, he is unmatched.”