I Would Have Taken All The Money If I Wanted To” – Obi Blasts Kenneth Okonkwo

The presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has strongly denied allegations of bribery and financial misconduct levelled against him by his former ally, Kenneth Okonkwo.

The controversy arose after Okonkwo alleged that Obi and some political figures from the South-East collected or demanded approximately ₦10 million from aspirants seeking party tickets. He further claimed during a television interview that there were financial irregularities in the process of distributing tickets within Obi’s political circle.

Reacting to the allegations, Obi’s legal representatives described the claims as false, defamatory, and damaging to his reputation. The legal team subsequently demanded ₦5 billion in compensation and a public apology from Okonkwo, warning that legal action would be pursued if the allegations are not withdrawn.

Speaking in an interview with NoireTV, Obi rejected suggestions that he had ever engaged in unethical or unlawful political practices, maintaining that he has always conducted himself within established rules and principles.

According to the former Anambra State governor, he has never been associated with reckless or improper conduct and remains committed to transparent leadership. He stressed that while critics are free to express their opinions, he would never participate in the kind of political culture he has consistently opposed.

Obi further argued that if personal enrichment had been his objective, he would have taken advantage of opportunities available to him while serving in public office. He maintained that he left office with his integrity intact and refused to compromise the values he has publicly championed.

The remarks come amid an escalating dispute between the two former political associates, with the threat of legal proceedings looming over the bribery allegations.