Obi urges caution on N75bn controversy

The former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi, has called on parties in the ongoing media war on the state finances to “stop all hostilities and remember that the dignity of the state and its people must be upheld at all times.

In a statement made available to The Guardian by his media aide, Valentine Obienyem, the former governor who said he was in the final week of his programme at the University of Cambridge and has not been physically available for clarifications, expressed displeasure over the controversy, which he said could be put to rest by a simple recourse to available and verifiable public records. He urged his supporters and those of Governor Willie Obiano to apply restraint in the interest of peace and development in the state.

Obi said that it was becoming clear that “some people, including aides, are going beyond the issue at stake.

“The N75 billion cash and investments include naira savings in banks, dollar savings and investments, which he left, are documented and verifiable and should not warrant unnecessary write-ups and calling of names,” according to Obienyem.

Describing the many write-ups — news, opinions, commentaries and features — he read on the matter as very sad, Obi appealed for caution, especially as he has offered to clarify any issue or doubts about his tenure if need be.

He said the incumbent governor remains a friend, and that the good people of Anambra State should join him in prayers to succeed in the improvement of the fortunes of the children of the state.