The proposed initiative by the Obidient Movement to mobilise donations for a nationwide birthday rally in honour of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has sparked a flurry of mixed reactions across Nigeria.
The appeal, made public on Monday via a joint statement signed by the group’s National Coordinator, Dr. Yunusa Tanko; Director of Mobilisation, Morris Monye; and Director of Strategic Communications & Media, Nana Kazaure, called on members and supporters—home and abroad—to contribute funds toward marking the 64th birthday of the former Anambra State governor on July 19, 2025.
According to the organisers, the funds are intended to support logistics, media engagement, volunteer kits, and mobilisation efforts for what they described as a “monumental birthday rally.”
“This is more than a birthday celebration; it is an opportunity to reaffirm our collective commitment to good governance, justice, and accountability in Nigeria,” the statement reads.
To ensure accountability, the Obidient leadership said it had established four bank accounts managed by Serah Ibrahim, Ezeokoli Blessing (also known as Jack), and John Alor, adding that financial updates would be provided regularly.
But the appeal has generated widespread debate, particularly on social media platforms, where critics are accusing the movement of leveraging Obi’s birthday to subtly raise funds for political campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Backlash and concerns
Some Nigerians expressed outrage over what they see as an insensitive move, especially amid the country’s biting economic hardship.
One X (formerly Twitter) user, @Enwagboso, wrote, “Peter Obi should get a hall and celebrate his birthday. He is wealthy.
He is frugal but secretly wants birthday support contributions to double as an indirect campaign of his desperation to be president.”
Another commentator, pharmacist Sadiq Maunde, criticised the initiative, labelling it a betrayal of the movement’s core values.
“If you don’t see anything wrong in the Obedient Movement soliciting funds from struggling Nigerians to organise a birthday rally, I’m not sorry, but everything is wrong with you,” he posted.
Ejiro Praise added, “The country is going through a lot. We shouldn’t give them a negative talking point about this movement. PO’s birthday should be low-key. When are we going to talk about electoral reform?”
@stanleyy2k7 echoed similar sentiments, “It’s no longer business as usual. We’ve not seen any meaningful activity from the Obidient Movement since 2023. You people just want to cash out.”
Despite the backlash, several loyalists have defended the donation call, noting that participation is voluntary and not compulsory.
@Chinobonano1 posted, “That is why it’s called a donation. Hear me again—it’s a donation. Not mandatory.”
Another supporter, Michael Fano, argued that the funds would be used for rally materials like t-shirts and flyers, adding, “It’s just to show solidarity, not exploit anyone.”
Obi Not Behind Fundraising, Tanko Clarifies
When contacted by KUKURUKU, Dr. Yunusa Tanko confirmed the authenticity of the statement but stressed that the initiative came from the Obidient Movement, not from Peter Obi himself.
“Yes, the statement is from us. The initiative we are planning is basically to do some charity around the rally,” he explained.
Tanko said the group intends to commemorate the day by visiting orphanages, digging boreholes, and engaging in other community support activities, which are consistent with Obi’s previous birthday traditions.
“We just want to support people who need help. It’s about solidarity. I’m sure you’re aware that he [Peter Obi] usually engages in charitable acts on his birthday. So we are trying to do the same for him.”
Asked if Obi is aware of the plans, Tanko affirmed: “Of course. That’s why I’m giving you more clarification. It is, however, our initiative—not that of Mr. Obi.”
Obi, who finished third in the 2023 presidential election, remains a symbol of hope and reform for many Nigerian youths and first-time voters disenchanted by mainstream political actors.
However, Monday’s donation request appears to have drawn a line between passionate support and political propriety.
While supporters argue that voluntary crowdfunding is a legitimate tool in grassroots politics, critics believe it could erode the movement’s credibility if not handled transparently, or if it appears to shift focus from policy advocacy to personality cultism.
