Supporters of former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, have unveiled a new campaign song ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Hausa-language Afro track titled “Lokaci,” meaning “this is the time,” was performed by Katsina-born artist, Mr DapBoy.
It was introduced by the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Dr Yunusa Tanko, who also produced it under the alias DJ Funky G (80ties).
Tanko disclosed this in a statement on his social media page on Saturday.
He wrote, “Welcome to our latest single remix album titled Lokachi (Time), sung by Mr DapBoy, a Katsina State-born artist, for the love of HE PO.
“Produced by DJ Funky G (80ties), also known as Dr Yunusa Tanko. Peace and love PO all the way. Arise and shine, a new Nigeria is POssible.”
The song was unveiled virtually, including on X, on Thursday and has started gaining attention among Obi’s supporters, known as Obidients, as well as young Nigerians.
Speaking in an interview with The NGGOSSIPS on Saturday, Tanko said the song was designed to pass a unifying message across the country.
He said, “It is an Afro hit song in Hausa called ‘Lokaci,’ which literally means ‘this is its time.’”
On whether it mirrors the “Emilokan” slogan popularised during President Bola Tinubu’s campaign, Tanko said both were different.
“No, it is not. This is a unifying message. We’ve held down the South East for too long. It is their time to be integrated into the political landscape and allowed to demonstrate their capabilities. And it is something that all of us will benefit from.
“You know the issue of the Civil War as it concerns the South East has led to a lot of distrust. So, this is the best time to reunite this country with a Southern presidency, especially from South East extraction, who has the capacity, competence and character to lead this country,” he said.
He added that reactions to the song had been positive, noting that Obi also appreciated it.
Tanko said the track followed the earlier campaign song, “ELUUPEE,” which gained popularity ahead of the 2023 elections.
“You can tell from the reactions on my social media. Everybody likes the song. Even His Excellency Mr Peter Obi couldn’t hide his love for it,” he added.
On the inspiration behind the song, Tanko said it reflected changing attitudes among young people, especially in the North.
He said: “The inspiration behind it is that the younger generation of Northern youths are detaching themselves from the shackles of this particular ‘follow-follow’ people.
“They now have a mind of their own and want to determine their future. They no longer want to be gagged and teleguided, but at least show that this is where they are headed. They now want to emancipate themselves.
“This song was done by Mr Dap, who is from Katsina State. He’s a core Hausa person. And he’s singing for Peter Obi. That is something different from what you used to know.”
The song has continued to generate mixed reactions online.
A digital content creator, Elis Egbu, wrote, “Dr. Tanko Yunusa you’re a patriot God will continue to bless you for all you do towards restoring hope in the minds of the good people of Nigeria.”
A Katsina resident, Simon Nweke, said, “I love this man called Tanko, his work ethic, I mean this man is possibly the next Obi. Whenever I hear ‘I will be with you Tanko will flash in my mind’ he is one leg even in fire. May God crown your efforts with victory.”
A Lagos businessman, Adewale Banks, wrote: “Obi Phenomenal is on course and can’t be stopped. That’s an inferno.”
An estate surveyor in Bauchi, Douglas Yakubu, also said: “Tanko has always been a Dr With the vibes.”
On X, a user, @J-seyofficial, wrote, “Wow! I don’t understand Hausa, but I must confess that I like the beat and the rhythm of the song.”
Another user, Victor Essang, said, “Wow, lovely! Good music! Though I don’t understand the language, I love the music. Well done, Dr Yunusa!”
Dr Dakwak Gwom Yakubu added: “DJ Funky G has good production. You are now a jack of all trade o, Mallam. The song is nice.”
However, some critics faulted the move.
A user, ‘Kanmi Bhadmus,’ wrote, “God WTF! Not a video of his campaign promises or manifesto, a video of your failed music production career. You want to use Obidients to cash out again? Pity them now.”
@Westerners17 wrote, “U wan use streaming cash out before the crash out of obi.”
DGov @omoluabisq added, “Na this one go win Una the ticket? Better accept your fate and go back to eluuuupeee.”
🚨 BREAKING: Watch the full clip here ➤
