Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general elections, has clarified his financial status, stating he is a billionaire in naira but not in US dollars. The former Anambra State governor made the remarks during an interview, where he also addressed his relationship with Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Obi's Billionaire Status Clarified
When asked directly whether he is a billionaire and if his wealth is measured in naira or US dollars, Obi responded with a clear distinction. He acknowledged that while the term "billionaire" is often calculated in dollars, his own wealth falls short of that benchmark.
"So you know billionaire, the calculated billionaire is in dollars. No, in naira. Yes, I am in naira, but not in dollars," Obi said during the interview. The former governor further noted that capital and wealth can be measured in various ways, but he did not provide specific figures regarding his assets or net worth.
Obi Addresses Relationship with Wike
The interview also touched on Obi's political association with Wike, particularly their collaboration during the 2023 election campaign. Obi responded by emphasizing that he holds no personal grievances against the FCT minister, describing him as a friend.
"I don't have anything about Minister Wike. He remains a friend and everything," Obi stated. He also addressed an alleged comment attributed to Wike, suggesting that Wike would be among the first to become a victim if Obi were to become president. Obi dismissed this notion, asserting that his political ambition is not rooted in seeking retribution against opponents.
"I'm not campaigning to be president to start pursuing people. That would be waste of Nigerian time," he said.
Priorities If Elected President
Obi outlined that his primary focus, if elected, would be on improving Nigeria rather than settling political scores. He argued that Nigerians who have placed their hopes in him would be disappointed if he entered office only to pursue those who opposed him.
"You said that a lot of people had their hope in me. So if I go there and my job is done to close the shop, which is Nigeria? I start pursuing people who didn’t want to know the other against me. It will be a mitigated disaster," he said.
The former governor said his administration would instead concentrate on creating opportunities and ensuring that government operates within the law and available resources. "For me, it is an opportunity to faithfully serve Nigeria by ensuring that the right things are done within the law, within the resources we have," Obi added. He stressed that his goal would be to improve governance and restore Nigerians' confidence in the country's leadership.
"Today they are in one place or the other where they think is better. Wish them well. For me, it is an opportunity to faithfully serve Nigeria," he said.
Obi Rejects Debt Claims by Anambra Government
In a related development, Obi previously denied leaving any outstanding debts when he handed over as governor of Anambra State in March 2014, contradicting a claim by the current state government. The denial came in a video that circulated on Monday, July 28, after Izuchukwu Okafor, Anambra's Commissioner for Finance, said on the Voice of Ndi Anambra Podcast on Facebook that the state's monthly federal allocation was still being deducted to service loans taken during the administrations of both Obi and his successor, Willie Obiano. The contradiction highlights ongoing political tensions as Obi campaigns for the presidency.
