The Obidient Movement, a grassroots political force inspired by former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, has been thrown into disarray following the resignation of its Director of Mobilization, Morris Monye. Monye announced his exit on Thursday, citing frustration over poor results in Anambra State, lack of communication from the movement’s leadership, and immense personal financial strain after reportedly spending over ₦40 million to fund mobilization activities.
In a lengthy statement shared on social media, Monye expressed disappointment that despite his sacrifices, there had been no tangible progress or clear structure within the movement. According to him, “Nearly one year down the line, most of our short, medium, and long-term goals remain unmet. I won’t continue with optics without results.” He described his resignation as a painful but necessary decision to preserve his mental and financial stability.
Monye revealed that he had personally bankrolled several projects aimed at expanding the movement’s reach across Nigeria, including voter education, logistics, and local group activation. “All funds were self-raised, from me, by me, and through me. There was no account for mobilization, no external support,” he lamented. He emphasized that his investment—over ₦40 million—came from personal savings, underscoring his deep commitment to the cause.
A major source of discontent, according to Monye, was the alleged lack of engagement from Peter Obi and other top figures within the Obidient Movement. He claimed that since assuming his role, he had received no direct communication or direction from the movement’s central leadership. “Peter Obi has never asked what we are doing in the mobilization team. There’s been no communication, no acknowledgment, nothing,” he stated.
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The former director also highlighted the toll his involvement had taken on his personal life and business interests. He alleged that government sympathizers had targeted his enterprises because of his activism, leading to emotional strain on his family. “It’s been an exhausting journey—mentally, financially, and emotionally. I can’t keep pouring from an empty cup,” he said, signaling the toll that unpaid political work had exacted on him.
Despite his resignation, Monye listed key projects he initiated during his tenure, including the development of an online membership database, reactivation of dormant support groups, and creation of regional structures to strengthen the movement’s presence nationwide. He also introduced “Obidient NextGen,” a youth-centered network aimed at mobilizing university students, and initiated plans to equip polling unit agents with body cameras for election transparency.
Monye stressed that his departure was not an act of betrayal but a call for introspection within the movement. He urged leaders to professionalize their operations by engaging consultants, funding departments properly, and instituting accountability systems. “The 2023 magic won’t repeat itself by luck. Mobilization now requires structure, financing, and consistent strategy,” he warned.
The news of his resignation has sparked mixed reactions among Obidient supporters. While some praised him for his transparency and service, others accused him of overreacting or seeking public sympathy. Still, political observers view the development as a red flag that highlights deep-seated organizational cracks within the movement, which has struggled to transition from online activism to sustained political structure.
Monye hinted at his next steps, saying he would focus on rebuilding his personal life and pursuing academic advancement, possibly through executive programs at Oxford or Cambridge. However, he affirmed that his belief in good governance and citizen participation remains unshaken, even if he is no longer part of the Obidient command structure.
As the Obidient Movement grapples with the implications of Monye’s exit, analysts say the development could affect its future mobilization and donor confidence ahead of upcoming elections. Without reform and internal cohesion, the movement risks losing momentum among Nigeria’s politically active youth, many of whom once saw it as a beacon of change and civic empowerment.
