By Divine Sam

Former National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, has explained the circumstances surrounding his departure from Peter Obi’s political camp and his decision to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP) ahead of the 2027 general election.

Tanko, who was unveiled on Wednesday as the National Coordinator of the SDP Presidential Campaign Council for its candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, said his decision followed a feeling that members of Obi’s inner circle no longer wanted him in the movement.

Speaking during an interview with Symfoni TV, the former Obi ally maintained that he had no personal disagreement with the former Anambra State governor but was unwilling to remain in an environment where he felt he was merely tolerated.

“The group did not want me. You don’t stay where you’re being tolerated. You go to where you’re being appreciated.

“I respect Peter Obi, but since they don’t want me, people who want me picked me up from the dustbin and made me a bride. That’s what happened,” Tanko said.

Tanko was among Obi’s closest political associates and played key roles in his 2023 presidential campaign, serving as his spokesperson and Media Director of the Labour Party Presidential Campaign Organisation.

In September 2024, Obi appointed him National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement worldwide. However, in October 2026, he was removed from the position and subsequently appointed Political Adviser, North, to the former governor.

Explaining how he secured his new role in the SDP, Tanko disclosed that he informed both Obi and the National Leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Senator Seriake Dickson, before accepting the appointment.

He also clarified that his relationship with Adebayo was not a recent development, noting that both men had maintained a cordial relationship since 2023.

“This is not a mistake in history. When you go back into history, you will see my warm relationship with him way back in 2023. So this is a relationship that has long been built,” Tanko said.