Peter Obi supporters suspend fundraising drive, give reason

A proposed fundraising initiative by supporters of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has been suspended following widespread public backlash over transparency concerns and questions surrounding its purpose.

The group had earlier announced four dedicated bank accounts to receive donations in support of a nationwide rally scheduled for July 19, intended to mark Obi’s birthday. The accounts were said to be jointly managed by Serah Ibrahim, Ezeokoli Blessing, and John Alor.

However, the move quickly drew sharp criticism from Nigerians online — including voices within the larger ‘Obidient’ movement who questioned the necessity of crowdfunding for a birthday event and raised red flags over accountability.

Responding to the growing controversy, the organisers released a joint statement on Tuesday, signed by National Coordinator Yunusa Tanko, Director of Mobilisation Morris Monye, and Director of Strategic Communications and Media Nana Kazaure. The trio admitted that the fundraising campaign had been poorly communicated and lacked sufficient context.

“We have received feedback and concerns regarding the recent announcement of donation accounts for the July 19 rally as a birthday celebration for H.E. Peter Obi,” the statement read. “We acknowledge that the release of donation account details and communication without adequate context may have created confusion and raised concerns. We take full responsibility for that and sincerely apologise.”

The organisers clarified that the upcoming event, themed “From Compassion to Purpose: Obidients in Action for a New Possible Nigeria,” was never intended to be a birthday party. Rather, they described it as a day of national reflection, civic action, and a recommitment to the values of the Obidient movement.

They urged supporters to instead “allocate your resources and lend a helping hand to those in need,” signaling a pivot away from the previously announced financial campaign.