The All Progressives Congress Presidential Campaign Council has criticized Peter Obi's record as governor of Anambra State, saying he has no hiding place for his poor performance. APC-PCC spokesman Dele Alake stated that Obi's tenure was marked by exceptional fiscal prudence, but this claim has been disputed. According to Alake, Obi's administration spent $4.05 billion and contracted $123.77 million in external loans.
The Anambra State Government has revealed that Obi left office with eight different external borrowings for various projects, including malaria, erosion control, education, and healthcare. These debts have been serviced by subsequent administrations, including Governor Chukwuma Soludo's. Alake noted that borrowing is not inherently bad if used for development, but Obi's administration failed to show tangible results across various sectors in Anambra.
Despite the borrowings, Obi's administration failed to pay workers' salaries in some ministries, including the Water Corporation. Alake mentioned a memo from Obi's Chief of Staff, Chuks Ileogbunam, who pleaded with Obi to pay the Water Corporation workers' N15m monthly salary to avoid protests. Obi had promised to prioritize workers' welfare, but his administration's failure to do so has been criticized.
Alake stressed that Obi's promise to quit the presidential race if it was proven that he left a debt burden for Anambra State has been rendered invalid. The APC-PCC spokesman also noted that Obi had promised to resign as governor if workers were not paid as and when due. Alake accused Obi of deceiving people into voting for him and leaving his successors with heavier arrears to clear.
The APC-PCC has advised Obi to purge himself of his lies and seek forgiveness from the Anambra people. Alake also expressed concern over Obi's recent solidarity visit to someone facing an EFCC trial for unexplained wealth and corruption. According to Alake, Obi's actions demonstrate a lack of integrity and honor.
Alake emphasized that Obi's followers should be concerned about his actions and the implications for his presidential ambitions. The APC-PCC spokesman stated that Obi's participation in the 2027 presidential race is no longer justifiable, given his failure to fulfill his promises to the Anambra people.
The APC-PCC's criticism of Obi's record has raised questions about his suitability for leadership positions. As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Obi's opponents are likely to scrutinize his performance as Anambra governor. The controversy surrounding Obi's record may impact his chances in the upcoming election.
Key points
- Peter Obi's administration spent $4.05 billion and contracted $123.77 million in external loans during his tenure as Anambra governor.
- Obi's administration failed to pay workers' salaries in some ministries, including the Water Corporation.
- APC-PCC has advised Obi to purge himself of his lies and seek forgiveness from the Anambra people.
