The National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, has commented on candidate selection and electoral strategy, referencing recent remarks by Rotimi Amaechi.
Tanko made the statements during an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, while discussing considerations ahead of future elections. Citing Amaechi’s earlier position, Tanko said, “Now, let me make reference to the statement of His Excellency Rotimi Amaechi yesterday.”
He continued, “He said, and he clearly said that the party should make sure they choose the right candidate if they want to win election.” Expanding on the point, Tanko added, “Do you want to choose somebody who win primaries, cannot win the election, or do you want to lose the election and only win the primaries?”
He further addressed the issue of zoning, stating, “And also, the fact still remains that it’s a Southern presidency at the moment. It’s a Southern presidency. It’s a Southern presidency.” According to him, strategic positioning could influence electoral outcomes: “And to make it easy for the party to win, zone it to the south and give the candidacy to the south, and you are sure of winning.”
He added, “Anything short of that will only bring you losing the election.” Tanko also called for independent assessment by citizens:“And I’m saying this for every Nigerian to critically go and do his own independent poll. It clearly shows that.”
Highlighting public sentiment, he said, “And the moment you saw that kind of euphoria and the love that was shown to Peter Obi and crown consul, the Nigerian people have spoken.”
