Peter Obi denies a rift with Chukwuma Soludo and defends his financial record as Anambra governor.
Former Anambra State Governor and National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has denied reports of a rift with Governor Chukwuma Soludo.
Obi spoke at the Nigerian Guild of Editors’ 22nd Conference in Enugu on Friday. He said their political differences have not damaged their personal relationship.
“My wife and I are godparents to Soludo’s children. Yes, we are that close,” Obi said.
He added,
“So we are not quarrelling, and we will never quarrel.”
Obi also defended his financial record as Anambra governor. He insisted that he left no debt behind when he left office. According to him, the state had $150 million in savings at the time. Obi said Abia State Governor Alex Otti also confirmed the figure during an Arise interview. He challenged anyone with contrary evidence to present it.
“No other governor has left dollars. If they see one, tell me,” he said.
The former governor explained that he inherited about $18 million when he took office. He said the figure later rose to $30 million before reaching $150 million. Obi also addressed claims that his administration created some of Anambra’s debt. He argued that the savings could have covered the alleged debt.
“Even if you say all the money they said Anambra is owing, $120 million, and it was created by me, which is wrong public accounting,” he said.
Meanwhile, Obi said his comments were not aimed at attacking Soludo or any other official. He maintained that his focus remained on the financial record he left behind. Obi said the state could have gained more from those savings if they remained untouched.
“I didn’t do it calling any of them name. I have no reason to do that,” he said.
His comments come amid public discussions about the finances and political direction of Anambra State.
