The political crisis surrounding the Obi Kwankwaso Movement has deepened following the resignation of its National Head of Operations, Francis Nnoli, amid disagreements over the organisation’s relationship with the Nigeria Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Nnoli announced his resignation after concerns emerged over whether the movement should operate as an independent support organisation or formally coordinate its activities with the political party whose platform is being used by Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso for their joint presidential bid.
In his resignation statement, Nnoli said his decision was motivated by the need for greater political discipline, clearer organisational structures and stronger coordination between support groups, candidates and the party...READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
He argued that any organisation established to mobilise support for candidates contesting under a political party should have a clear understanding of its relationship with the party, its candidates and the wider political objectives of the election.
The resignation comes amid an increasingly public disagreement between the movement and the NDC. The movement’s Director General, John Ugulu, has maintained that the OK Movement is an independent organisation and does not require formal approval or directives from the party to conduct its activities.
The dispute intensified after the movement announced a 59 member Presidential Campaign Council to mobilise support for the Obi Kwankwaso ticket. The NDC subsequently rejected the announcement, stating that the authority to establish and announce an official campaign council rests with the appropriate organs of the party.
Nnoli said the disagreement over the structure and direction of the movement made it difficult for him to continue in his position with full confidence. He therefore chose to step aside while making it clear that his resignation should not be interpreted as a rejection of the broader political project involving Obi and Kwankwaso.
He urged supporters to avoid parallel structures, conflicting announcements and organisational disagreements that could create confusion ahead of the 2027 election.
According to Nnoli, the political contest would require more than slogans and the creation of organisational titles. He emphasised the importance of coordination, credibility, discipline and strategic planning, particularly in determining how independent support movements should work alongside political parties and candidates.
The development adds to the growing tension surrounding the relationship between the OK Movement and the NDC, with both sides presenting different interpretations of the movement’s level of independence and its relationship with the party.
While the movement has insisted that it can maintain its independence while supporting the party’s candidates, the NDC has maintained that official campaign structures operating in its name must receive approval from the party leadership.
Nnoli’s resignation has therefore brought the disagreement into sharper focus as political preparations for the 2027 general elections continue. His departure also raises questions about how the movement will reorganise its leadership and resolve the dispute over coordination with the party in the months ahead.
