Charles Odibo: Obidient Connect Will Turn Passion into Victory in 2027
In the run-up to the 2027 elections, the Big Tent Coalition has unveiled Obidient Connect, a digital platform designed to organise voters, engage the diaspora and protect electoral integrity. Coordinating the initiative is communications expert Charles Odibo, Director of Media and Communications at the coalition. In this exclusive interview, he explains the initiative, why Nigerians should register and how it could shape Peter Obi’s 2027 presidential campaign. Sunday Ehigiator brings the excerpts:
What exactly is Obidient Connect?
Obidient Connect is the organisational backbone of the entire Obidient Coalition Movement for the 2027 elections. It is more than an Information Technology platform designed to map every Obidient to their polling unit, create local volunteer structures, engage diaspora Nigerians for funding, and protect votes through a citizen-driven action. In short, it takes our passion and translates it into a structured, grassroots-driven electoral machine.
Why is grassroots organising so central to your strategy?
Because elections are not won on social media. They are won at the 176,864 polling units across Nigeria. In 2023, we had unmatched energy, but not enough structure at the grassroots. Obidient Connect fills that gap. It allows us to build unit-by-unit, ward-by-ward, and local government-by-local government networks that can mobilise voters, monitor elections, protect results, and ensure that certified polling unit results are transmitted to our own central portal in real time on election day. That is how we will win the 2027 presidential election.
What specific features does the platform provide for users?
It does five key things. First, it maps you to your polling unit. Second, it allows you to volunteer as a captain or supporter at that unit. Third, it connects with the diaspora so they can donate as they can. Fourth, it includes a secure communication system for verified updates and voter education. Finally, on election day, it enables us to capture and transmit all polling unit results in real time.
Beyond the mechanics of the platform, what are the national issues that will define the 2027 elections?
Nigeria is in the middle of a human development crisis. Over 130 million of our people live in multidimensional poverty. Education and healthcare systems are collapsing. Our infrastructure is weak, just look at the national embarrassment on the Benin to Onitsha express road, insecurity is spreading, and unemployment is at record highs. The current government has failed to meet its social contract with the people. 2027 is therefore not just about changing leadership, it is about saving Nigeria from decline. Our position is clear: the country must shift from consumption to production, invest in education and healthcare, lift millions out of poverty through job creation, and secure the country. Obidient Connect ensures that Nigerians who care about these issues are not just angry, but organised to make a difference.
Let’s talk about insecurity. How does the Obidient Movement view this challenge?
Insecurity is both a symptom and a driver of our underdevelopment. When millions of young people are unemployed, undereducated, and hopeless, insecurity festers. We need a leadership that understands security is not just about guns, but about jobs, education, and community empowerment. The Obidient vision is to rebuild Nigeria so that insecurity is addressed at its roots.
The diaspora played a huge role in amplifying the Obidient Movement in 2023. How does Obidient Connect engage them this time
Nigerians in the diaspora cannot vote, but they are deeply invested in the future of this country. With Obidient Connect, they now have a structured and transparent way to contribute financially. Small, consistent monthly donations – $10, $20, $50, or $100 – will fund voter education, logistics, training of polling unit captains, and transportation of volunteers. They can even adopt specific polling units. This way, their love for Nigeria translates directly into grassroots power on the ground.
You’ve spoken about the diaspora’s role. How does their support go beyond funding?
Nigerians in the diaspora are some of the most skilled and successful people in the world. They contribute billions of dollars in remittances annually. With Obidient Connect, they now have a structured way to support nation-building directly – by sponsoring polling units, funding voter education, and helping us build transparency tools. Their involvement is about both money and expertise.
Critics may say technology can’t overcome the entrenched structures of money politics in Nigeria. How do you respond?
Money politics thrives on voter apathy and disorganisation. We all witnessed what happened at the just concluded Osun State governorship poll. When citizens are mobilised, educated, and supported, they become resistant to inducement. Obidient Connect is about turning millions of Nigerians into organised citizens who understand their power and are determined to use it. That’s far stronger than any envelope on election day.
Poverty is another major concern. What is your position on reducing it?
Poverty in Nigeria is man-made, not destiny. Our economy has been run for the benefit of a few rather than the majority. By prioritising production, SME growth, agriculture, and infrastructure, we can lift millions out of poverty. Obidient Connect will help ensure Nigerians elect a government that is focused on inclusive economic growth rather than waste and corruption.
Critics argue Nigeria’s institutions are too broken for any platform or movement to change outcomes. How do you respond?
Institutions are built by people. When citizens are passive, broken institutions thrive. But when citizens are organised and vigilant, institutions are compelled to work better. Obidient Connect is about empowering Nigerians to take ownership of their democracy. It’s a first step toward stronger institutions.
Let’s turn to infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Why do you emphasise these sectors?
Because they are the foundations of human development. No country can grow if its schools are broken, hospitals are inaccessible, and roads are collapsing. Nigerians die daily from preventable conditions. Millions of children are out of school. This is unacceptable. The Obidient agenda prioritises investing in human capital as the driver of economic transformation. If elected, Peter Obi will treat education and healthcare as national emergencies.
What is your own role as Coordinator of Obidient Connect?
My role is to drive penetration of the platform nationwide and globally. That means ensuring millions sign-up, use it, and trust it. It also means engaging the diaspora, building media partnerships, countering disinformation, and positioning Obidient Connect as a world-first citizen-led election integrity project. Ultimately, my success will be measured by whether this platform helps deliver Peter Obi’s victory in 2027.
How do you see Obidient Connect shaping election day itself?
On election day, Obidient Connect will be the nerve centre. Polling unit captains will mobilise early voter turnout. Trained agents will transmit results from each polling unit.
Beyond Peter Obi, why should ordinary Nigerians care about this platform?
Because it’s about their future. Obidient Connect is not just about electing Peter Obi; it is about reclaiming democracy and putting power back in the hands of citizens. It’s about ensuring your PVC counts, that your vote is protected, and that your voice matters. If we succeed, it will change Nigerian politics forever, beyond one election cycle.
Finally, what’s your call to action to Nigerians at home and abroad?
Very simple. If you are in Nigeria, sign-up to Obidient Connect today and register with your polling unit. Volunteer if you can. If you are abroad, commit to a monthly donation. Share the platform with your friends and family. This is not the time to be a spectator. Every Obidient and other well-meaning Nigerians must match voice with action. Together, we can make 2027 the year Nigerians take back their country.
