BY Ebunoluwa Olafusi
Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the last elections, has refuted the allegation that he financially induced Rufai Oseni, a journalist with Arise Television.
Reno Omokri, ex-aide to former President Goodluck Jonathan, had alleged that Obi financially sponsored the funeral of Oseni’s dad.
Reacting to the allegation, Obi described it as wicked blackmail against “the courageous journalist who has been doing his job professionally”.
He argued that Oseni has always stood for what is right and has challenged him fearlessly on occasion.
“Ordinarily, I do not get involved in name-calling and mud-slinging, neither do I attack people nor try to defame their personalities, in the course of my political journey,” he said.
“I have also avoided replying to cheap, wicked, or malicious blackmails publicly or openly in the same irresponsible manner they are thrown at me.
“Anyone who has followed my corporate and political life knows that I always stay on issues, with my focus on finding solutions to societal challenges and ameliorating people’s suffering.
“Let me state clearly that this is a categorical lie from the pit of hell. Everyone who understands my life will attest to the fact that I do not give anyone money to promote my name.
“I have never monetarily induced any journalist to speak or write in my favour.”
Obi said he always honours invitations to social events like birthday celebrations or funerals and that people can attest to this.
He added that he has never been to Oseni’s village and does not know where the journalist hails from.
“Countless journalists, media personnel, the less privileged, the wealthy, etc., have all invited me to their occasions, and they will attest to the fact that I honour such invitations, especially when people are grieving,” he added.
“As it is obtainable in Igbo tradition, I always attend such events with some gifts, to support the celebrant.
“I have never been to Rufai’s village. Even at the point of writing this, I do not know where he is from. One then wonders why people could decide to tarnish other people’s image for no justifiable reason.
“To those involved in such evil endeavours, I wish them well and pray to God to have mercy on them.”
Obi said he remains committed to finding solutions to Nigeria’s challenges.
“Our focus in Nigeria should be about rescuing the nation from the many challenges plaguing it,” he said.
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