Why I’ll work with Malami, El-Rufai despite corruption allegations – Obi

ADC chieftain Peter Obi has said he is willing to work with members of his party, including those facing corruption allegations, to positively influence them.

Speaking in a recent interview on Magic FM, Aba, Obi explained that engaging with colleagues under scrutiny allows him to effect change, drawing a parallel with Jesus Christ, who associated with tax collectors and prostitutes to transform them.

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

He specifically referenced Attorney-General Abubakar Malami and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, noting their contributions to government and questioning the selective application of the law.

“Most of them are actually facing persecution, even though yesterday they were considered saints. Malami and El-Rufai, for example, everyone knows their contributions. Why are they being targeted?” he asked.

El-Rufai was arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) on charges related to alleged fraud and money laundering on March 24, while Malami, his wife Bashir Asabe, and son Abdulaziz face a 16-count charge of alleged money laundering brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). All have pleaded not guilty.

Obi also reaffirmed his confidence in his qualifications to fly the ADC flag in the next presidential election.

“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 it, but I say it to everyone,” he said. “If you check our backgrounds, I believe I’m the most qualified of all contesting today.”