I Can Never Insult Obi, Says Tanko After SDP Defection

Former National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Dr Yunusa Tanko, has dismissed reports alleging that he insulted his former principal, Peter Obi, following his defection to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Tanko, who recently joined the SDP and became National Coordinator of the presidential campaign council of Prince Adewole Adebayo and Dr Usman Bugaje, described the reports circulating online as fabricated and intended to create division between him and the former Anambra State governor.

In a statement issued on Saturday, November 14, 2026, by the campaign council’s Chief Media and Communications Adviser, Comrade Mark Adebayo, Tanko maintained that he had never spoken disrespectfully about Obi.

“I can never insult His Excellency, Mr Peter Obi,” he said.

Tanko explained that their political separation was peaceful and based on mutual understanding, stressing that political differences should not result in personal attacks or bitterness.

“We parted ways peacefully and with absolute mutual understanding. Politics is about vision and service, never about bitterness or personal attacks,” he stated.

He also expressed appreciation to Obi for the opportunity to work with him and lead the Obidient Movement Worldwide during his political engagement with the former Labour Party presidential candidate.

Tanko said he remained grateful for the experience and opportunities he received while serving alongside Obi, adding that he continued to respect his former principal.

“I remain forever grateful to His Excellency, Mr Peter Obi, for the wonderful opportunities he gave me to serve alongside him and lead the Obidient Movement worldwide,” he added.

The former movement coordinator expressed confidence that Obi would recognise the reports as false, given the relationship and mutual respect they shared.

He further urged members of the public and the media to disregard the publications, describing them as attempts by political detractors to manufacture hostility between the two men.

Tanko’s clarification follows his move to the SDP, where he is now working with the presidential campaign council of Adewole Adebayo and Usman Bugaje ahead of the 2027 general elections.

His statement underscores his position that his departure from Obi’s political camp has not affected his personal regard for the former presidential candidate.