The Anambra State Government has challenged former governor Peter Obi to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race, citing inconsistencies between his campaign pledges and allegations over debts and workers' salary arrears left by his administration. The state's New Media Office raised the issue, asking: "When will Peter Obi quit presidential campaign?" This comes after Obi pledged to withdraw from the presidential contest if it was established that he left Anambra State in debt.
The government recalled that Obi had pledged to resign if workers were not paid their salaries as and when due. A letter dated April 25, 2006, purportedly written by Chuks Iloegbunam, Obi's then Chief of Staff, was published to support the argument on salary arrears. The letter appealed to Obi to intervene in salary arrears owed to workers of the Anambra State Water Corporation, with a monthly wage bill of about N15 million.
The Anambra State Government has alleged that outstanding external loans contracted during Obi's administration amounted to N127.4 billion as of June 30, 2026. The state government also alleged that salary, pension and gratuity arrears remained outstanding. Obi has rejected the allegations, maintaining that he left office without unpaid salaries, pensions, gratuities or certified contractor obligations.
Obi has challenged the state government to provide evidence supporting its claims and pledged to stop campaigning for the presidency if it establishes that he left debts or unpaid obligations. He has also said his administration cleared more than N35 billion in historical gratuities and arrears. The controversy is part of a broader dispute between Obi and the Anambra State Government over the financial position of the state when he left office in March 2014.
The latest controversy has sparked a heated debate, with many Nigerians weighing in on social media. Some have called on Obi to provide clarity on the allegations, while others have defended the former governor. The Anambra State Government's challenge has raised questions about the financial management of the state during Obi's administration.
The state government's allegations have been denied by Obi's supporters, who claim that the former governor left the state in a better financial position. The dispute has highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability in government financial management. The Anambra State Government's challenge has also sparked concerns about the impact on the 2027 presidential election.
The outcome of the dispute remains to be seen, as both sides continue to trade allegations and counter-allegations. The Anambra State Government's challenge has put pressure on Obi to respond and provide evidence to support his claims. The controversy will likely continue to be a major talking point in Nigerian politics in the coming weeks and months.
Key points
- The Anambra State Government has challenged Peter Obi to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race over alleged debts and unpaid salaries.
- Obi has rejected the allegations, maintaining that he left office without unpaid salaries, pensions, gratuities or certified contractor obligations.
- The dispute has highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability in government financial management.
