Peter Obi rejects former Governor Bisi Akande's claim that the #EndSARS protests were orchestrated by the Obidient Movement. Obi’s spokesperson emphasizes the protests were a grassroots movement, not politically driven, and urges Akande to stop spreading divisive, misleading allegations that undermine the cause and its victims.
Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has strongly rejected former Osun State Governor Bisi Akande’s claims that the 2020 #EndSARS protests were orchestrated by supporters of Obi’s Obidient Movement. Akande, in a recent podcast, alleged that the protests were funded and coordinated by Obidients, with the aim of disrupting Bola Tinubu's presidential bid.
Responding to the allegation, Obi’s media aide, Umar Ibrahim, described Akande's remarks as not only misleading but also divisive. Ibrahim stated that such claims misrepresent the true nature of the #EndSARS protests and disrespect the memory of those who fought against police brutality and corruption. According to Ibrahim, the protests were a spontaneous, grassroots movement that reflected the frustrations of Nigerian youths, particularly in response to police brutality, economic challenges, and corruption.
The Obidient Movement, which emerged later, was a separate, political movement focused on advocating for good governance and accountability. Ibrahim stressed that linking the two movements was inaccurate and harmful to national unity. He further called on Akande to cease making unverified claims that could further polarize Nigerian society. The message from Obi's camp is clear: the protests were not politically orchestrated, but rather a cry for justice from young Nigerians seeking a better future.
