Peter Obi Clarifies Past Engagement with Gen. Abacha, Denies Political Motives

Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has publicly addressed renewed speculations surrounding his past engagement with the late military ruler, General Sani Abacha, stating unequivocally that his involvement was non-political and borne out of national economic concerns.

In a statement released on Wednesday July 9, 2025, titled “Our Engagement with General Abacha: Setting the Record Straight”, Obi reaffirmed that his interaction with the late general stemmed solely from his role as a businessman advocating for port decongestion during a period of significant economic strain.

“I had never met General Abacha prior to that encounter,” Obi explained. “Our meeting was the result of collective concern from traders and importers over delays in clearing goods at the ports. We approached him not as political actors,but as concerned citizens seekingsolutions.”

To support his claims, Obi attached a letter documenting his appointment—alongside others—into a presidential task force on port decongestion, an initiative he says was aimed at restoring efficiency in port operations and easing the burden on businesses.

“The objective was clear: to propose practical measures that would benefit the business community and the Nigerian economy as a whole,” he noted.

While acknowledging that his clarification may not silence what he described as “mischief makers with ulterior motives,” Obi said his statement is driven by a commitment to transparency and truth. “I do not expect this evidence to end the speculations, but I owe Nigerians clarity on any matter I am involved in.”

Obi has consistently maintained his stance during recent interviews and reiterated that his civic engagement during the Abacha era was based on principle, not political ambition.