Our Reporter, Abuja
The director of Abuja School of Social and Political Thoughts and former Chairman of National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), Dr. Sam Amadi, has described the Obidient Movement as a rare and transformative force in Nigerian politics, urging its supporters to channel their energy into building a new political coalition capable of reshaping the nation’s governance.
Amadi spoke on Sunday during an X Space forum themed “Harnessing the Obidient Energy: The Role of Obidients in ADC,” organized by Diaspora arm of the Obidient Movement, amid rising tensions with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Reflecting on the internal crisis between both groups, Amadi said the Obidient Movement stands apart from previous political mobilizations in Nigeria because it is driven by a shared philosophy of systemic change rather than loyalty to political patronage or individual benefits.
He contrasted the movement with past political followings, including those of former President Muhammadu Buhari and President Bola Tinubu, arguing that while those leaders commanded mass support, their followers were largely bound by personality-driven loyalty or material incentives.
“The Obidients represent a movement of people who are dissatisfied with Nigeria’s political structure and institutions and are seeking a fundamental reset,” Amadi said.
“They are not disciples of a political patron; they are bound by a shared moral and ideological commitment to change.”
According to rightsactivist, the movement is anchored on three core pillars: a government free from special interests, extreme accountability in public governance, and leadership that is transparent, accessible, and people-focused.
He described the Obidient philosophy as a model of what he termed “democratic civilization,” emphasizing responsible governance, anti-corruption reforms, and a deliberate focus on improving citizens’ economic well-being.
Amadi traced the movement’s roots to Nigeria’s growing culture of civic resistance, linking it to past youth-driven protests such as the #EndSARS demonstrations, which he said reflected a broader rejection of the country’s political order.
He recalled his involvement in previous political reform efforts and revealed that he eventually shifted his support to Peter Obi, whom he described as the figure that young Nigerians identified with as a symbol of political renewal.
“The youth found in Peter Obi a representation of their desire for a different kind of politics,” he said.
“This movement is organic. Many Obidients have never met Obi personally, yet they are deeply committed to what he represents.”
Amadi warned that the movement is now at a crossroads and must decide whether to align with traditional political structures or build a fresh coalition that brings together young people, diaspora professionals, workers, and the unemployed.
He acknowledged that forging such an alliance would not be easy but insisted it is necessary to transform Nigeria’s political landscape.
“Politicians fear and envy this movement because they sense its disruptive power,” he said.
“The Obidient Movement carries an energy that cannot be dismissed or second-guessed.”
He concluded by describing the Obidients as a “special group” with the potential to redefine Nigeria’s political future if they remain united and focused on long-term reform.
