No, the Akatsuki members were entirely unaware that Tobi's true identity was Obito Uchiha. Throughout his tenure within the Akatsuki, Tobi meticulously maintained a facade, presenting himself to the entire organization as the legendary Uchiha Madara.
The Elaborate Deception of Tobi
Tobi's true identity as Obito Uchiha was one of the most closely guarded secrets in the Naruto series. His elaborate disguise and persona ensured that no one within the Akatsuki, from its founding members to later recruits, ever suspected his real self.
- Posing as Madara Uchiha: Tobi deliberately adopted the identity of Madara Uchiha, a figure revered and feared in the shinobi world. This allowed him to wield immense authority and command loyalty within the Akatsuki, as most members believed they were following the directives of the legendary Uchiha patriarch. This strategic misrepresentation was crucial for his overarching plan, known as the Eye of the Moon Plan.
- Controlling the Akatsuki: By posing as Madara, Tobi effectively manipulated the Akatsuki to achieve his objectives, using their power and resources to capture Tailed Beasts and further his own agenda. The members, believing they were aiding Madara's vision for a new world, unknowingly served Obito's personal quest fueled by past traumas.
- The Veil of Secrecy: The secrecy surrounding Tobi's true identity was paramount to his control and the successful execution of his plans. Revealing himself as Obito Uchiha, a presumed-dead former Konoha ninja, would have stripped him of the authority and mystique he gained by impersonating Madara.
Akatsuki's Perception vs. Reality
The table below illustrates the stark contrast between what the Akatsuki members believed about Tobi and his actual identity:
| Aspect | Tobi's Public Identity in Akatsuki | Tobi's True Identity (Unknown to Akatsuki) |
|---|---|---|
| Name Used | Madara Uchiha | Obito Uchiha |
| Knowledge By Akatsuki Members | Believed to be Madara Uchiha | None |
| Primary Goal (as perceived by Akatsuki) | Uniting the world under Madara's vision, creating a new world order. | Executing the Eye of the Moon Plan for personal reasons, rooted in past trauma and disillusionment. |
| Authority & Influence | Exercised immense authority as the presumed leader and mastermind. | Derived from the deception and strategic manipulation of members. |
This complete lack of knowledge about Tobi's true identity highlights the depth of Obito's deception and his skill in manipulating powerful individuals for his own ends.
