“I’ll Work With Malami, El-Rufai Despite Corruption Allegations” — Peter Obi
A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Peter Obi, has said he is open to working with party members facing corruption allegations, insisting that engagement, not isolation, is key to reform.
Obi made this known during a recent interview on Magic FM in Aba, where he addressed concerns about associating with controversial political figures.
He said his approach is rooted in influence and transformation, not endorsement of wrongdoing.
Drawing a biblical comparison, Obi explained that meaningful change often requires direct engagement with people under scrutiny.
He said, “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,” stressing that leadership involves guiding people toward better conduct.
He specifically mentioned former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and ex-Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai.
Obi acknowledged their past roles in government and questioned what he described as selective justice in ongoing legal actions against them.
“Most of them are actually facing persecution, even though yesterday they were considered saints. Malami and El-Rufai, for example, everyone knows their contributions. Why are they being targeted?” he asked.
El-Rufai was recently arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over allegations involving fraud and money laundering.
In a related case, Malami, alongside members of his family, is facing a 16-count charge filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). All defendants have denied the allegations and pleaded not guilty.
Obi also used the opportunity to reaffirm his ambition within the ADC ahead of the next presidential election. He expressed strong confidence in his credentials, saying he stands out among potential contenders in terms of competence and capacity.
“I’m the most qualified to become ADC candidate. Who is more competent? Who has more capacity? When I say it, I know people don’t like it, but I say it to everyone,” he said. “If you check our backgrounds, I believe I’m the most qualified of all contesting today.”
