Fresh Crisis Hits OK Movement As National Operations Chief Quits Over NDC Relationship

The National Head of Operations of the OK Movement, Francis Nnoli, has resigned from his position amid a disagreement over the relationship between the movement and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Nnoli announced his resignation on Sunday, citing concerns about political discipline, structural clarity and coordination between support groups, political candidates and the party.

The development followed a disagreement over whether the OK Movement should operate as an independent support organisation or formally align its activities with the NDC, the political platform being used by Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso for their joint 2027 presidential bid.

Nnoli’s position contrasted with that attributed to the movement’s Director-General, John Ugulu, who has maintained that the OK Movement is an independent organisation without a formal relationship with the NDC and does not require the party’s endorsement or directives.

The disagreement intensified after a Presidential Campaign Council was announced under Ugulu’s name. The NDC subsequently distanced itself from the council, stating that the authority to constitute and announce such a body rests with the appropriate leadership of the political party.

In his resignation statement, Nnoli argued that support organisations established around a political ticket should have clearly defined relationships with the political party and candidates they seek to support. He said questions of coordination, authorisation, communication and institutional responsibility should not be overlooked.

Nnoli said the differences over the direction and structure of the movement made it difficult for him to continue in his position with full confidence, leading him to step aside.

Despite his resignation, Nnoli reaffirmed his support for the broader Obi-Kwankwaso political project. He also urged supporters to avoid creating parallel structures or making statements capable of causing confusion within the movement.

The development adds to the ongoing debate over how support groups associated with the 2027 political project should coordinate their activities with the NDC and its recognised structures.