Labour Party’s governorship aspirant for the 2025 Anambra election, Mr. John Nwosu, is rallying support from members of the Obedient Movement, urging them to unify for lasting impact.
Addressing members from the five South East states at a restructuring symposium in Onitsha, Nwosu praised the movement’s role in reshaping Nigerian politics.
Nwosu said, “The story of the Obidient Movement is still being written. There is more to be done. As our Principal Mr. Peter Obi said, ‘We are in a marathon race to produce a New Nigeria. I believe firmly that a New Nigeria is imperative and possible!’”
He highlighted the significance of organizing the Obedient Movement, saying, “The structuring of the Obidient Movement has been long overdue. We, who were there from the very beginning, are glad that it is finally happening. We pray that it succeeds.”
Emphasizing the movement’s inclusiveness, he added, “The Obedient Movement transcends politics, ethnicity, and religion. It should accommodate everyone who wants to see a better, secure, peaceful, and productive Nigeria. We are all called to serve and join forces under the Obedient Movement to bring about the desired changes for a new and better Nigeria.”
Nwosu, however, urged caution against opportunists. “From the onset, the Obedient Movement was organic. It still is. Yet we must recognize that it has a titular leader and founding members – the Six Support Groups that were the initial conveners. Now that it is fashionable to be Obedient, we are witnessing those who were not there at the beginning, who hardly made any contributions, trying to hijack the Obedient Movement. This must not be allowed. We should not repeat the mistakes of Imo and Edo States, where selfish and political allegiances were used to split the movement.”
Nwosu reminded supporters of Obi’s leadership, stating, “Obedient Movement is Peter Obi, and Peter Obi is the Obedient Movement. He is the leader, and we are his disciples. The Obedient Movement is not aligned with any political party. Where our leader goes, we go with him.”
Describing Anambra as the next critical test for the movement, Nwosu warned against individuals claiming leadership without authentic ties to the cause.
“As the governorship election approaches, some might want to assert themselves as leaders of the Obedient Movement, and they must be ignored,” he stated.
Addressing his vision for Anambra, Nwosu criticized the current governance. “Anambra people are underserved and overtaxed. On revenue, we will definitely look beyond Federation Account Allocation. Our Internally Generated Revenue regime will be based on fair taxation that is compassionate, progressive, and productive.”
He committed to fair tax policies, especially for small businesses and low-income earners, to stimulate economic growth.
“I intend to put in place social welfare programs, Social Safety Nets that cater to the populace. These include housing assistance, nutrition programs, and financial aid, demonstrating a commitment to protecting vulnerable populations,” Nwosu affirmed.