The Delta State Obidient Movement has reignited its commitment to the vision of a New Nigeria with a landmark conference held on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at the Grand Hotel, Asaba. Themed “Reawakening & Harmonizing Obidient Movement for a New Nigeria,” the event attracted leaders and supporters determined to chart a path for good governance and societal transformation.
In his opening address, Chris O. O. Biose, fondly referred to as “Obidient Daddy” and Protem Chairman of the Delta Obidient Elders’ Council, praised the movement’s achievements during the 2023 presidential elections.
“Our first duty as elders is to appreciate the gallant Obidients who mobilized over 10 million votes for Mr. Peter Obi in mere months,” Biose said. “Now, we must prepare to replicate this feat with greater intensity in 2027.”
He emphasized the movement’s mission to dismantle structures perpetuating electoral, political, and economic injustices in Nigeria, stressing the urgency of electoral reform.
“The first step to building a New Nigeria is electoral reform that empowers the electorate to oust incompetent governments. Obidients must develop strategies to counter electoral fraud effectively,” Biose declared.
Biose called for a shift from a consumption-driven economy to one anchored on production, leveraging Nigeria’s vast resources to benefit its citizens.
“We envision a self-reliant nation where wealth serves the masses, not a corrupt elite. Nigerians deserve a prosperous and egalitarian society,” he stated.
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Paying homage to his mentor, the late Chief Alfred Ogbemi Rewane, Biose described him as a model of humility and patriotism. “Rewane inspired my journey and remains a beacon for progressive causes,” he said.
Professor Chris Nwaokobia, the keynote speaker, delivered an inspiring speech, celebrating the movement’s resilience.
“They said we were just a few people tweeting in a room. Yet, the Obidient Movement grew stronger, proving that grassroots mobilization can ignite change,” Nwaokobia asserted.
With a rallying cry for action, he declared, “2027 is near. The time to organize, network, and strengthen our movement is now. Leadership has failed us, leaving over 130 million Nigerians in poverty, but the Obidient Movement remains a beacon of hope and values.”
He urged supporters to build from the grassroots: “Let’s organize rather than agonize. Units and wards are where the change begins. Young people will lead, supported by the wisdom of our elders.” He concludes.