2027: Why I will work with Malami, El-Rufai despite corruption allegations against them — Peter Obi

The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has said he is willing to collaborate with all members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), regardless of corruption allegations surrounding some individuals.

Speaking on Magic FM in Aba, Abia State, Obi stated that engaging with such individuals provides an opportunity to positively influence them if they are found guilty.

He referenced the example of Jesus Christ, noting that he associated with people considered sinners in order to transform them.

“When Jesus came here, his friends were tax collectors and prostitutes because it’s all part of what he was trying to change. It was all part of what he was trying to build as a person,” Obi said.

Obi also argued that some of those facing allegations may be victims of selective justice, claiming that others with more serious accusations continue to operate freely.

“Most of them are actually facing persecution, because yesterday, they were the people who were saints.

“Malami and El-Rufai, for example. Everybody knows the contributions of Malami and El-Rufai to the present government. So why are they being persecuted?

“The law is very selectively applied because we know we could see people who have done worse.

“We know people who actually should not be part of us all moving around like stars, while this government is busy targeting those whom they think are political opponents.”

was recently arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) over allegations of fraud and money laundering.

Similarly, , alongside his wife and son, is facing multiple charges of alleged money laundering filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), though they have pleaded not guilty.

Obi further maintained that he remains the most qualified candidate to represent the ADC in the next presidential election, citing his background in business, banking, governance, and international partnerships.

“I’m the most qualified to become ADC candidate. Who is more competent? Who has more capacity? When I say it, I know people don’t like that, but I say it to everyone,” he said.

“Of all those who are contesting today, I believe that if you check our backgrounds, I’m the most qualified.”