Disorder broke out in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, yesterday during the inauguration of new executives by the Obidient Movement, culminating in a heated altercation and overturned chairs.
According to reports, the turmoil unfolded in the presence of Dr. Tanko Yunusa, the global head of the Obidient Movement.
The conflict ignited when Wisdom Osai, the former secretary of the Obidient Movement in Borno, challenged the legitimacy of the newly appointed executives, claiming that the state leadership was not properly informed about their selection.
As he voiced his objections, a group of angry individuals stormed the venue to forcibly remove him, prompting his supporters to push back.
Eyewitnesses who spoke with LEADERSHIP expressed frustration with the process, labeling it as a deception against the intelligence of the state’s stakeholders and many members.
One disgruntled member, Ike Joseph, accused the nomination process of bypassing established protocols.
He stated, “Certain individuals aiming to seize control of the party simply convened privately and inserted their own names without any consultation with the wider membership.”
Another insider, who preferred to remain anonymous, added, “We were supposed to collectively nominate and decide on our leadership. Instead, these candidates were imposed on us without our knowledge. This is why we are openly rejecting the appointments.”
He further noted that the proposed state coordinator, Ayuba Wakawa, slated for swearing-in, lacks broad acceptance among members.
“This is not the correct procedure; leadership cannot be self-appointed without input from the members,” he emphasized.
Conversely, some party members who supported the inauguration criticized Wisdom Osai’s conduct and those opposing the event.
One supporter remarked, “It’s baffling to see such anger without understanding the proper way to address concerns. We believe he was backed by individuals seeking the position. Handling the matter in this manner is simply disgraceful.”
He further alleged, “The disruption was orchestrated by hired thugs aiming to sabotage the inauguration.”
LEADERSHIP noted a tense atmosphere as numerous members stormed out in anger before order was eventually restored.
Despite the upheaval, our correspondent confirmed that the inauguration proceeded as planned.
The Obidient Movement’s media team stated that, despite deliberate efforts by some sponsored agitators to halt the event, security forces acted swiftly to contain the disturbance.
The media representatives said, “Thanks to the professionalism and prompt response of security personnel, peace and safety were maintained, allowing the program to continue uninterrupted. This episode highlights the movement’s resilience, bravery, and unwavering commitment to its mission despite attempts to derail it.”
