Akure, Ondo State — Former Ondo State First Lady Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu has thrown her weight behind Peter Obi, boosting his standing ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election.
Akeredolu, who is the widow of late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, confirmed her support on Friday through a post on X, where she reaffirmed her endorsement of Obi and the Obidient Movement with a blunt declaration: “Obi or nothing.”
Her statement followed reports linking her to the growing Obidient political base, which she publicly embraced without reservation.
Support declared at Obidient Movement event
The former first lady’s endorsement was delivered during the formal inauguration of the Obidient Movement in Owerri Municipal Local Government Area of Imo State. Although she was not physically present, her message was conveyed by her aide, Joseph Nwosu Okoire, who addressed supporters on her behalf.
In her remarks, Akeredolu described the Obidient Movement as a disruptive political force challenging long-standing governance failures across the country.
She criticised entrenched political practices marked by insecurity, corruption, food shortages, infrastructure decay, and abuse of public office, saying such conditions have left millions of Nigerians struggling.
Akeredolu said her support for Obi goes beyond political slogans, stressing that it reflects deeply held convictions.
According to her, Obi represents leadership grounded in what she described as the “three Cs” — character, competence, and capacity — qualities she believes Nigeria urgently needs.
ADC ticket debate intensifies
Akeredolu’s endorsement comes as internal debates continue within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over its presidential ticket ahead of 2027.
Since Obi joined the party in December, his supporters have stepped up pressure on the ADC leadership to zone the ticket to the South and formally present him as the party’s presidential candidate.
The push has sparked disagreements between members of the Obidient Movement and supporters of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who is also seen as a potential contender.
Akeredolu declares senatorial ambition
Beyond her presidential endorsement, Akeredolu also used the occasion to announce her intention to contest the Imo East Senatorial District (Owerri Zone) seat in the 2027 general elections.
Introducing herself to supporters, she highlighted her background as a retired public servant, development advocate, entrepreneur, and politician, with decades of experience in advocacy and public service.
She said the Owerri Zone needs leadership focused on practical outcomes, pledging to combine grassroots engagement with policy-driven solutions if elected.
Calling for unity and collective action, the 72-year-old urged residents to work together toward rebuilding Imo State and Nigeria as a whole.
Controversial prophecy surfaces
Separately, a religious figure, Bright Ndibunwa, founder of The Lord of Hosts Miracle Chapel and also known as Brighttheseer, has made controversial claims involving Peter Obi.
In a video circulated on Facebook, the cleric alleged that Obi could be at risk of a road accident and warned of a possible fire incident linked to a vehicle crash. The claims, which have not been substantiated, have drawn mixed reactions online.