The Obidient Movement has cautioned the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, against any attempt to interfere with the conduct of the 2027 general elections, calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to ensure a credible electoral process.
The movement expressed concern following Wike’s declaration that he would lead President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign in the Federal Capital Territory and Rivers State.
Wike reportedly made the declaration on Monday, describing himself as the field commander responsible for political operations in both territories ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Reacting in a statement issued on Wednesday through its Media and Communications Directorate, the Obidient Movement maintained that political campaign activities should not be confused with control over voters or the electoral process.
The group stressed that no politician or political party had the right to determine election outcomes before citizens cast their ballots.
According to the movement, Rivers State and the Federal Capital Territory belong to the people and should not be treated as the personal political territories of any individual or party.
It urged Wike and other political actors to focus on persuading voters through their campaign messages and records rather than engaging in actions that could undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
The movement also called on INEC and relevant security agencies to demonstrate impartiality and take proactive steps to address concerns about the credibility of the forthcoming elections.
It warned that any attempt to manipulate the 2027 polls by Wike, his associates or other political figures should attract appropriate consequences under the law.
The group further encouraged Nigerians to remain vigilant, monitor electoral activities, document suspected irregularities and report credible evidence of malpractice to the appropriate authorities.
It emphasised that electoral offences should be investigated and punished regardless of the political standing of those involved.
The movement also urged citizens to pursue accountability through lawful means, warning political leaders against interpreting public patience as acceptance of electoral misconduct.
Reaffirming its position, the Obidient Movement said the outcome of the 2027 general elections must reflect the freely expressed choices of Nigerians rather than the influence of powerful political figures.
It maintained that all political parties and candidates should be allowed to campaign freely, while voters must be given the opportunity to decide who governs them through a transparent and credible ballot.
