(In Nigeria) Akin Olaoye’s Exit from Obidient Movement Sparks Heated Debate in Nigeria Over Loyalty and Activism

 

Akin Olaoye, a prominent Nigerian businessman and vocal supporter of Peter Obi’s 2023 presidential campaign, has stirred intense online debate following his announcement on April 6, 2025, that he is leaving the Obidient movement. Olaoye, known for his active role in mobilizing support for Obi and his involvement in the 2020 EndSARS protests against police brutality, cited frustrations with the movement’s increasingly toxic rhetoric as a key reason for his departure. His exit has elicited polarized reactions across Nigeria, with some netizens praising his past contributions to the movement and others accusing him of disloyalty or succumbing to external influences.

Olaoye’s prominence as a supporter, bolstered by his business ventures such as the eyewear brand House of Lunettes, has amplified the significance of his decision. Critics have labeled his move a betrayal, questioning his commitment to Obi’s vision, while supporters argue that his concerns about negative rhetoric within the movement are valid and reflect broader challenges in Nigeria’s political activism. The ongoing online discourse has reignited discussions about the dynamics of the Obidient movement, its internal culture, and the pressures faced by public figures like Olaoye. His history as an EndSARS advocate and his influence in Nigeria’s socio-political sphere continue to fuel debates, making his departure a focal point in the country’s vibrant online political landscape.

See also: (In Nigeria) Mercy Johnson Silences Angela Okorie and Regina Daniels Feud with Savvy Brand Ambassadorship Reveal



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