Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has vehemently denied claims that he intends to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He addressed the rumors in a post on X, where he dismissed reports circulating on social media that linked his name to an APC event. Obi stated, “Let me make it unequivocally clear: I do not engage in toxic politics, blackmail, or any form of political manipulation. My name should not be associated with such narratives.”
Obi went on to clarify, “For the avoidance of doubt, now and in the future, I am neither a member of the APC nor do I have any intention of joining. My political stance has always been rooted in integrity, fairness, and issue-based engagement. I firmly believe that political parties should assess candidates based on their competence, capacity, and compassion—qualities that are crucial for building a better Anambra and a better Nigeria.”
He also addressed his former colleague from the Labour Party, Valentine Ozigbo, emphasizing that Ozigbo, like any other aspirant, should be judged based on essential leadership qualities in his new political affiliation, the APC.
“Elections and primaries should not be reduced to toxic narratives or personal attacks,” Obi added. “Political choices should be guided by credibility, vision, and the ability to bring about real change—not by dragging individuals into toxic discussions, blackmail, or unnecessary controversy.”
Obi further stressed that all primaries, whether conducted through voting, interviews, or any other democratic method, must be free, fair, and credible. He emphasized that any legitimate aspirant should be given a fair opportunity to contest without bias or coercion.
“As we approach the Anambra State governorship election in November, I sincerely hope that all parties, including mine, will ensure a transparent and democratic process with credible, fair primaries,” he said. “This election offers Nigeria a unique chance to embrace true democracy, something that unfortunately remains elusive in our country today.”
Concluding his message, Obi extended his best wishes to all political parties, urging them to uphold fairness throughout the process. “We must reject toxic politics, for that is the only path to achieving the democratic nation we so desperately need. By doing so, we will move closer to the new Nigeria we all seek,” he affirmed.
