The Obidient Movement in Imo State has debunked claims that its principal, Mr. Peter Obi, was behind the recent visit of former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, to Owerri.

In a statement signed by the state coordinator, Anukanti Vigilius Chukwuka, the group described as “mischievous” the reports linking Obi to El-Rufai’s presence in the state, insisting the visit had nothing to do with politics.

According to the statement, El-Rufai was in Owerri over the weekend to attend the annual Odenigbo Lecture—a cultural and intellectual event organised by the Catholic Archdiocese of Owerri, which is traditionally open to dignitaries from across Nigeria.

The movement explained that on the eve of the lecture, El-Rufai was hosted by Hon. Nnaemeka Madagwu, former Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly and one-time Transport Secretary under El-Rufai when he served as FCT Minister.

“Peter Obi was not even present at this year’s lecture, though he has attended previous editions as governor. Mischief makers are only dragging his name to create false impressions,” the statement noted.

It added that Obi merely honoured an invitation to a dinner in El-Rufai’s honour, describing the gesture as consistent with the Igbo spirit of gratitude.

“Our principal is committed to building a new Nigeria that is possible, in partnership with all well-meaning Nigerians,” the Obidient Movement stressed.