Dr Yunusa Tanko, recently named the national coordinator for the Adebayo-Bugaje presidential campaign under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has firmly rejected allegations that he insulted his former principal, Peter Obi. According to Punch, these claims emerged on social media shortly after Tanko left the Nigeria Democratic Congress camp. The publication reports that Tanko described the narrative as a fabrication designed by mischief-makers to damage his reputation and create hostility between the two figures.
The denial was issued in a statement released in Abuja by Mark Adebayo, the chief media adviser for the campaign council. Tanko insisted that he does not engage in blackmail or personal attacks, emphasizing that his political journey has always been defined by service rather than bitterness. He stated that the claims of using unprintable language against Obi were entirely false. "We parted ways peacefully and with absolute mutual understanding," Tanko said, as reported by Punch. He added that he remains grateful for the opportunities Obi provided him to lead the Obidient Movement Worldwide.
Punch reported that Tanko was unveiled to the SDP National Working Committee and various stakeholders during the inauguration of the party’s campaign council at its Abuja headquarters. The appointment follows his resignation as Obi’s political adviser for Northern Nigeria, a position he held for barely two weeks. The publication notes that Tanko had previously served as the national coordinator of the Obidient Movement before being removed from that post in October 2026. He confirmed that he tendered his resignation on October 30, 2026, before accepting the new role.
Tanko disclosed that he had contacted both Obi and Senator Seriake Dickson, the national leader of the National Democratic Congress, to explain his departure. The campaign council urged the public and media to disregard unverified reports and rely on official communications. This development occurs amidst broader political realignments within the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections. The publication highlights that Tanko’s move represents a significant shift in the landscape of Nigerian politics as parties consolidate their support bases.