Peter Obi Reflects On Dropping Business Interests After Becoming Governor

According to Ireporter Online, the Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has recounted how he stepped away from his private business interests upon assuming office as Governor of Anambra State, saying he prioritized full dedication to public service and avoided any possible conflict of interest.

Obi explained that at the time he was declared governor, one of his companies, Next International UK, was still managing significant financial and logistical operations, including an overdraft reportedly exceeding $7 million and over 200 containers of goods in transit.

He stated that immediately after his election, he informed his wife to take over the running of his business affairs and proceeded to resign from 11 companies on the very day he assumed office.

The former governor noted that the decision was deliberate, aimed at ensuring transparency and allowing him to focus entirely on governance and public administration. He has often pointed to his private-sector experience as a foundation that shaped his fiscal discipline and leadership style in public office.

Obi was quoted as saying that at the time of his assumption of office, “Next International UK had an overdraft of over $7 million and over 200 containers on the sea,” adding that he immediately stepped aside from his business interests.

He further reiterated that his transition from business to politics was guided by a commitment to accountability and responsible leadership.