Obidient Movement Depleted as Dr. David Ogula Quits, Cites Toxic Leadership, Dysfunction

The Obidient Movement has been hit by internal crisis following the resignation of Dr. David Ogula, Co-Director of Diaspora Engagement, who accused the group’s leadership of toxic behavior, manipulation, and lack of structure.

In a joint statement titled “Decoupling from the Structure of the Obidient Movement,” Dr. Ogula said the decision to step down was taken after a long period of reflection and disappointment with the direction of the movement.

“Every facet of the organization, from top to bottom, was marred by a casual and ad-hoc approach to conducting business. What is viewed as a movement is a constellation of enthusiastic sycophants, servile followers, and, sadly, innocent Nigerians hanging on to hope,” the statement read.

He described the movement’s internal environment as dysfunctional and self-destructive, noting that what was intended to be a platform for character-driven leadership had instead become a mirror of the same problems it sought to change in Nigeria’s politics.

According to him, leadership within the Obidient Movement often dodged responsibility, made arbitrary decisions, and encouraged a culture of control and impunity that undermined accountability.

“There was a persistent toxic culture, bad decisions, breaches of confidentiality, and enabling of bad behaviour,” he wrote. “These attitudes contradicted the ideals Nigerians were asked to uphold.”

Dr. Ogula also accused some leaders of turning the diaspora arm of the movement into a “cash cow,” adding that legal missteps and poor coordination stripped it of autonomy and credibility.

“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 stated.

Despite his resignation, Dr. Ogula said he remains proud of his contributions and will continue to advocate for a fair, inclusive, and just Nigeria even from outside the current structure of the movement.

“We are proud of our service and are uncoupling with a deeper understanding of the challenges we face. We will continue to partner with people who are honest, ethical, and committed to the cause of a new and prosperous Nigeria,” he said.

The statement concluded with appreciation to supporters who, according to him, “worked in good faith” toward the vision of a reimagined Nigeria built on integrity, justice, and accountability.