Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has strongly criticised the conduct of supporters of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, popularly known as “Obidients.”
In a series of statements on social media, Dabiri-Erewa described the Obidients as “monsters” that Peter Obi himself has “raised,” warning that their aggressive and uncontrolled behaviour could ultimately become the greatest obstacle to his political ambitions, particularly in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.l
“When it’s the turn of the South-East and who knows, if the lot falls on him, I hope he knows that these obingos/Obidients will ironically be his downfall. He needs to call them to order,” she stated.
Dabiri-Erewa further expressed frustration at what she termed the “toxic” and “Rada Rada rede rede” (chaotic and abusive) nature of some Obidient interactions online, insisting that as a public official, she would not remain silent in the face of such conduct. She added: “Let the obingo/obi-dient madness continue to be on display. They will be alright. Someday.”
The NiDCOM chief’s remarks come amid heightened political discourse as various actors begin positioning themselves for the 2027 presidential race. Peter Obi, who contested the 2023 election under the Labour Party banner and garnered significant youth and urban support, continues to be viewed by many as a potential contender, possibly under a different platform.
Dabiri-Erewa’s comments have sparked immediate reactions, with some Obidient supporters pushing back strongly against her characterisation of the movement.