Dr. Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, addressed an audience at All Saints’ Cathedral in Onitsha, urging the people of Nigeria’s South-East to unite for change and demand a government that upholds justice, equity, and opportunity for all.
This speech marked the South-East Obidient Movement Symposium, a gathering focused on mobilizing the region’s collective energy toward reshaping Nigeria’s future.
Reflecting on a pivotal lecture he delivered at the Women’s Center in Awka in October 2020, Dr Tanko spoke of the enduring need for a Nigerian president from the South-East, a vision that has since gained momentum through the leadership of Peter Obi, the movement’s most recognized champion.
He highlighted the South-East’s significant role in Nigeria, noting that the region covers about 29,388 square kilometres, comprises five states, and is home to over 11 million registered voters.
“The South-East holds a crucial place in Nigeria’s future,” Dr. Tanko stated, emphasizing that unity is the region’s greatest strength. He announced the formation of the National Coordinating Council of the Obidient Movement, aimed at organizing across all polling units nationwide to promote democratic leadership committed to the people.
The statement added, “Today, as we reflect on our progress, I must mention that our unity is our greatest strength. We must form a formidable force to achieve our common goal, which is a better future for our country thus, our collective efforts have given birth to the creation of the National Coordinating Council of the Obidient Movement, consequently my nomination as the Interim National Coordinator.
“Therefore, through your support, we are making significant strides, organizing across polling units in the country and engaging with support groups. Our mission is clear: to ensure democratic leadership that serves the people.
“We’re committed to having leaders who embody this vision, with representatives from each state, senatorial district, local government, ward, and polling unit. As the great Nelson Mandela once said, “The time comes in the life of any nation when there remain only two choices – submit or fight.”
“We choose to fight for a better Nigeria, where every citizen has equal opportunities for success. But get this straight, we are not calling people to take up arms against the state but rather for a retooling in mindset and a change in attitude that will birth the Nigeria we are all yearning for, from “Consumption to Production” .
Dr. Tanko underscored the resilience of the South-East, praising its people for their productivity, patriotism, and enduring impact across the world.
He called on them to join in the Obidient Movement’s vision of a Nigeria grounded in integrity, accountability, and inclusivity—a movement that emerged out of the demand for change following incidents like the 2020 Lekki massacre, which galvanized Nigerian youth against government oppression.
“The southeastern region, though systematically isolated, boasts remarkable productivity and resilience. The people of the region are hardworking, well-travelled, and patriotic, always leaving a lasting impact wherever they go.Hence, let’s march forward together, united in our quest for a brighter future.Without further adore I would like to give you a brief glance about the Obidient Movement as a whole.
“The Obidient Movement – a powerful force born out of Nigerian’s desire for change, took it’s bearing in 2020, when some patriotic citizens demanding for good governance, decided to come together and save this country from the current malady.
“The Movement is built on values such as integrity, accountability, inclusivity, justice, and empowerment. Its mission is to empower and mobilize Nigerian Youth to actively engage in the political process, advocate for meaningful change, and hold leaders accountable.
“The movement envisions a Nigeria where every citizen has equal opportunities for success, and the government serves with integrity and transparency.
“During the 2023 presidential election, young Nigerians sought for a leader who would champion their cause for a change and hold those in power accountable.
“That’s when His Excellency Peter Gregory Obi, a person of Impeccable character, integrity and proven track records emerged as the face of the movement.
“Obi’s message of hope, unity, and good governance resonated deeply with the youth, who were tired of the status quo.The Obidient Movement represents a beacon of hope for Nigerians seeking a better future.
“Therefore, Its impact was felt far and beyond the 2023 presidential election, as it continues to inspire a new generation of leaders and citizens committed to creating a just, fair and equitable society,” He said.
He encouraged South-Easterners to “stand on the shoulders of giants,” drawing strength from their cultural heritage of hard work, innovation, and solidarity, to fight for a Nigeria that works for all its citizens.
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Tanko addressed systemic injustices that have marginalized the South-East, calling for unity across ethnic, religious, and political divides. “When two elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers.
“Let us build a Nigeria that is just, equitable, and prosperous for all.As the great Frederick Douglass once said, “Power concedes nothing without a demand. It never did, and it never will,” he said.
He concluded by reaffirming the importance of the South-East’s presence in Nigeria and the world, stating, “Nigeria needs you just as much as you need Nigeria.”
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