Peter Obi says he is ready to work with colleagues facing allegations, defends El-Rufai and Malami, and declares ADC presidential ambition
Peter Obi has said he is willing to work with members of his party, including those facing corruption allegations, in order to positively influence them.
Also read: Heavy Security at INEC HQ After ADC Leadership Crisis
He made the remark during a recent interview on Magic FM in Aba.
Obi explained that engaging with colleagues under scrutiny could help drive change, drawing a comparison with the life of Jesus Christ.
“When Jesus came here, his friends were tax collectors and prostitutes because it was all part of what he was trying to change and build as a person,” he said.
He specifically referenced Attorney-General Abubakar Malami and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, noting their contributions to government and questioning what he described as selective application of the law.
“Most of them are actually facing persecution, even though yesterday they were considered saints,” Obi said. “Malami and El-Rufai, for example, everyone knows their contributions. Why are they being targeted?”
El-Rufai was recently arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission ICPC on charges linked to alleged fraud and money laundering.
Meanwhile, Malami, his wife Bashir Asabe, and son Abdulaziz are facing a 16-count charge of alleged money laundering brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC. All parties have pleaded not guilty.
Obi also reaffirmed his confidence in his political standing, declaring that he is best positioned to secure the African Democratic Congress African Democratic Congress presidential ticket in the next election.
“I’m the most qualified to become ADC candidate. Who is more competent? Who has more capacity?” he said.
“If you check our backgrounds, I believe I’m the most qualified of all contesting today,” he added.
Also read: Heavy Security at INEC HQ After ADC Leadership Crisis
The comments are expected to further stir debate within Nigeria’s political space ahead of the next election cycle.
