Peter Obi opens up on sponsoring Oseni’s father’s burial

Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the February 25 poll Peter Obi has debunked a claim by former presidential spokesman Reno Omokri that he sponsored the burial of broadcast journalist Rufai Oseni’s father.

Mr Obi said in a statement on Monday that Omokri’s claim is “wicked blackmail against the courageous journalist who has been doing his job professionally.”

He said, “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.

“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.”

The former Anambra State governor said he needed to clarify issues especially because a third party was involved.

He said, “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 noted that he always honours invitations to social events like birthday celebrations and funerals.

“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,” he said.