A political group within the Obidient family, known as the Diaspora Engagement has announced its decision to withdraw from the existing structure of the Obidient Movement, citing what it described as a “toxic culture” and “dysfunctional attitudes” within the organisation.
The group said the move followed months of observation, reflection and a growing sense of disappointment in the way the movement was being run.
In a statement signed by its co-director, Dr David Ogula yesterday, the group said the decision to decouple itself was painful but necessary, given the state of crisis in Nigeria and the need to remain true to the ideals that birthed the movement.
“When we were approached over a year ago to assist in structuring the movement, we did so with unwavering commitment, driven by a shared vision of a new Nigeria founded on character, integrity, accountability, inclusivity, fairness, and justice,” Ogula said.
He explained that the group had hoped to channel the energy of Nigerian youths into a diverse and inclusive collective, free from the usual political, ethnic and religious biases.
However, he lamented that what they encountered within the movement was far from what was promised.
“We experienced attitudes that belied the public rhetoric. Instead, we saw the dysfunctional approach that defines much of Nigeria — petty tricks, vagueness, and arbitrary decisions,” he said.
According to Ogula, the atmosphere within the structure became toxic, dominated by symbols and behaviours that contradicted the values the movement claimed to uphold.
He accused some members of undermining the structure, breaching confidentiality, and enabling bad behaviour.
“The so-called movement turned into a constellation of enthusiastic sycophants, servile followers, and innocent Nigerians hanging on to hope,” he stated.
He said decisions were often made to serve personal interests rather than collective goals, while rules and procedures were routinely ignored.
Ogula also criticised the way the diaspora arm of the movement was treated, saying it was seen more as a “cash cow” than a vital partner in building a new Nigeria.
He noted that poor understanding of legal frameworks for cross-border operations led to opaque and dysfunctional arrangements that stripped the diaspora of its autonomy.
“Ultimately, it became clear that we had been riding on a dirt road in a broken vehicle and had come to a dead end,” he said.
Despite the split, the group pledged to continue advocating for a fair, just, and inclusive Nigeria, even if it means working outside the existing Obidient structure.
Ogula added that the group would seek alliances with ethical and committed Nigerians to keep the vision of a new Nigeria alive.
“We are proud of our service and are unafraid to speak the truth. We remain hopeful that Nigeria’s dreams will soon be realised,” he said.
