Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi has clarified his position ahead of the November 8 governorship election, stating that although he remains a member of the Labour Party, he considers all candidates contesting in the election as personal friends.
He stressed that his priority is for the people of Anambra to choose their next governor through a peaceful, credible and transparent electoral process.
Obi spoke with newsmen in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area, where he reaffirmed his loyalty to Labour Party but dismissed any form of desperation toward the poll. He said his role is to encourage a fair contest without engaging in wrongdoing or undue influence. According to him, “My party for this election is Labour Party. I want a free and fair election. All the contestants are my friends and I am supporting our candidate, but not to the extent of vote buying because I can never buy votes.”
He noted that his interest in the election is purely for the growth and well being of the state, insisting that the people must be allowed to freely choose their preferred candidate without financial inducement. Obi also added, “I cannot go to the extent of doing anything that is not right for the election. Let Anambra people decide who will be their governor. People should not indulge in vote buying. I am not against any of them.”
Obi reminded residents that he is not on the ballot and stressed that he has no personal stake in who emerges as governor. He maintained that most of the candidates share some form of relationship with him, either politically or personally. The former governor also mentioned that he has been consistent in promoting issue based politics and urging candidates to prioritise the development of Anambra State.
He recalled leaving office as governor at the age of 42 and expressed satisfaction with his contributions to the state over the years. Obi emphasised that leadership should be about service and accountability, not personal gain or political rivalry. He encouraged voters to focus on the competence and integrity of candidates rather than financial handouts during campaigns.
Meanwhile, Peter Obi made a philanthropic gesture by donating a total of N30 million to two major health institutions in the state. The School of Nursing, Adazi Nnukwu, and the University Teaching Hospital, Ogidi, received N15 million each to support improved health care delivery and training of medical professionals.
