There is intense gridlock on Nwaniba road, from Water Fountain, Plaza, Ikot Ekpene road, and other major roads in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, as the “Obidient Movement,” supporters of the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, embarked on a two-million peaceful solidarity rally.
Over 10 different support groups for Peter Obi’s presidential ambition had on Saturday, October 1, 2022, gathered around the water fountain, Nwaniba, which was the take-off point as early as 8 am before moving to Plaza, the centre of Uyo, to Ikot Ekpene road, and other major roads in the city.
The gridlock lasted over two hours in every location the crowd, which cut across all classes and ages moved to, even though security personnel who showed solidarity were also on the ground to ensure there was no breakdown of law and order.
Speaking with our correspondent, the former chairman, Agulu Peoples Union, Uyo, Mr. Jude Anyanwor said the crowd is not a rented one but rather people who are tired and dissatisfied with ‘bad leadership’ in the country.
Anyanwor, who is also a stakeholder in the “Obidient Movement Group’ described the suffering in the country as unprecedented, urging the people to ensure that Nigeria regains its lost glory by voting for Peter Obi in 2023.
His words, ”The time has come when everybody should take his/ her destiny in his hands. We want change in government and it is only Peter Obi that can bring about the positive change. The people who came out for the match came out of their volition because they are tired of what is happening in Nigeria and want ‘change’ and a better Nigeria, which can only come if Peter Obi wins.
On his part, Ichie Martins Edimobi one of the supporters of the movement, said the march is not only for the youths but everyone who has been affected in one way or the other by bad governance in Nigeria.
Edimobi who is an Igbo Chieftain explained that he decided to match in solidarity with the youths despite his age and status because the current administration is an ill-wind that blows the majority no good even as he urged the youths not to relent in supporting the emancipation of Peter Obi.
The President of the Igbo community and non-indigenes in Akwa Ibom, Dr Sunday Orie described the crowd as divine urging everyone to show the same solidarity on election day by voting Peter Obi.