Labour Party leader Peter Obi has clarified his past business connections to former military Head of State General Sani Abacha, stating they were purely economic rather than political.
The explanation comes amid renewed scrutiny of his corporate history during Nigeria’s military era.
Obi, who built his fortune in banking and manufacturing before entering politics, emphasized: “My engagements under that regime involved legitimate commerce, not governance.”
He cited his role as chairman of Fidelity Bank during the late 1990s when interacting with government agencies was unavoidable for businesses.
The Labour Party stalwart has faced increasing attacks since becoming a top contender in the 2023 elections. His opponents frequently reference Nigeria’s military era to discredit rivals.
“Economic participation shouldn’t be conflated with political endorsement,” Obi asserted during a Lagos business forum. He pointed to his governance record in Anambra as proof of democratic values.
As Nigeria’s political temperature rises ahead of 2027, such historical examinations of major figures will likely intensify. Obi’s proactive clarification aims to prevent what aides call “misleading narratives” from gaining traction.
