The Obi-Kwankwaso Movement, popularly known as the OK Movement, has reaffirmed the validity of its Presidential Campaign Council, insisting that the structure it announced remains operational despite disagreement with the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).
In a statement signed by its National Director-General, Hon. John Ozyl Ughulu, the movement also reaffirmed its independence from the NDC, arguing that its organisational structure and leadership decisions do not require approval from the party or any individual leader.
The declaration comes amid an ongoing disagreement over the respective roles of the political party and the support movement in preparations for the 2027 general elections.
Movement Defends Its Organisational Independence
The OK Movement’s statement presents its campaign structure as an independent organisational decision.
The movement’s position contrasts with criticism from NDC figures who have argued that support groups should not assume responsibilities belonging to the political party or its formal campaign machinery.
The disagreement raises questions about how political parties and affiliated support groups coordinate their activities, especially when campaign structures, leadership appointments and public mobilisation are involved.
Campaign Council Dispute
The controversy centres on the establishment of a 59-member Presidential Campaign Council by the OK Movement.
NDC national leader Seriake Dickson has criticised the move, while Peter Obi, the NDC presidential candidate, has also rejected the council’s creation. The OK Movement’s latest statement indicates that it does not accept the party’s position on the scope of its organisational authority.
These competing positions reflect an unresolved disagreement over the relationship between a political party and a support movement associated with its candidate.
Implications for the 2027 Campaign
The dispute underscores the importance of clearly defined roles, decision-making authority and internal coordination in election campaigns.
Whether the disagreement leads to a negotiated arrangement or continues into the campaign period will depend on the positions adopted by the parties and movement leaderships.