Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, launched an identification card system and an online registration portal for the Obidient Movement on April 24, 2025, in Abuja, aiming to formalize the grassroots support base that propelled his campaign.
The initiative, unveiled during a stakeholders’ meeting attended by Obidient coordinators from Nigeria’s 36 states and the diaspora, seeks to create a structured database of supporters, enhance mobilization efforts, and provide official recognition for members. The portal, accessible via the Labour Party’s website, allows Obidients to register, receive digital ID cards, and access updates on the movement’s activities.
Obi described the move as a step toward building a “new Nigeria” by empowering supporters to participate actively in political and community development. “The Obidient Movement is not just about elections; it’s about creating a platform for Nigerians to demand accountability and drive change,” he said, emphasizing the need for a verifiable membership system to counter infiltration and misinformation. The ID cards, which include unique QR codes for authentication, will grant holders access to exclusive events, training programs, and volunteer opportunities. The launch also featured the unveiling of a mobile app for real-time engagement, with over 50,000 registrations recorded within 48 hours.
The initiative has generated significant buzz, with supporters praising Obi’s innovative approach to political organizing, though critics, including some APC members, dismissed it as a publicity stunt ahead of 2027. Technical glitches on the portal’s first day, including server overloads, drew complaints, but the Labour Party assured users of swift resolutions. The launch aligns with Obi’s ongoing outreach, including town hall meetings and youth empowerment programs, as he seeks to maintain momentum in a competitive political landscape. The Obidient Movement, which emerged organically during the 2023 elections, remains a potent force, particularly among young Nigerians, with analysts noting its potential to influence future elections if effectively harnessed.