RismadarVoice Reporters
November 12, 2026
The Obidient Movement has congratulated its former National Coordinator, Dr Yunusa Tanko, following his appointment as National Coordinator of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) Presidential Campaign Council ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The movement described the appointment as recognition of Tanko’s political experience, organisational abilities and contributions to its activities.
In a statement issued by its Media and Communications Directorate, the group wished Tanko success in his new assignment, maintaining that his emergence in another political party should encourage cooperation rather than division.
The movement explained that its membership cuts across political parties, ethnic groups, religions and social backgrounds, with supporters united by their stated commitment to accountable leadership and national development.
Although it encouraged members to join the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), the political platform of its principal, Peter Obi, the group acknowledged that supporters were free to participate in other political parties.
It argued that the emergence of former members in influential political positions demonstrated the leadership experience developed within the movement.
The group also cited Obi’s attendance at the inauguration of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde’s presidential campaign office as an example of cooperation across political differences.
According to the statement, the movement’s objective extends beyond supporting candidates within a single political party to encouraging Nigerians to contribute to public service through different platforms.
Tanko was formally unveiled on Wednesday, November 11, during the inauguration of the SDP Presidential Campaign Council at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.
He will coordinate the presidential campaign of the SDP candidate, Adewale Adebayo, and his running mate, Usman Bugaje.
Speaking during the ceremony, Tanko confirmed that he resigned as Obi’s Political Adviser for Northern Nigeria on October 30, 2026, before accepting his new assignment.
He said he had informed Obi and NDC national leader, Senator Seriake Dickson, of his decision.
Tanko previously served as National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement and was a spokesperson for Obi during the 2023 presidential election.
He pledged to work with the SDP leadership to strengthen its campaign organisation and mobilise supporters nationwide.
His appointment represents a change in his political responsibilities ahead of the elections, although the Obidient Movement’s congratulatory message does not constitute an announcement of a formal alliance between the SDP and NDC.
