Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, took to X this morning to debunk rumors alleging a secret meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Rome to discuss a supposed ₦225 billion Fidelity Bank debt crisis.
In a strongly worded post, Obi dismissed the claims as “falsehoods” spread by “blackmailers,” implicitly pointing fingers at Sahara Reporters and its publisher, Omoyele Sowore, who have been linked to the narrative on social media.
Obi clarified that his recent trip to Rome was solely to attend the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, not for any clandestine meeting with Tinubu. He also addressed the Fidelity Bank allegations, denying ownership of the institution and emphasizing that his involvement was limited to serving as a board member years ago.
“These lies are meant to distract and mislead Nigerians,” Obi wrote, urging the public to disregard the rumors and calling out those orchestrating the smear campaign.
The rumors, which surfaced on X and other platforms, claimed Obi was entangled in a ₦225 billion debt crisis tied to Fidelity Bank and had sought Tinubu’s intervention. Posts on X suggested Sahara Reporters, led by Sowore, amplified these claims, prompting Obi’s swift response.
The former Anambra State governor accused the perpetrators of using blackmail to tarnish his reputation and sow division among Nigerians.
This is not the first time Obi has faced such allegations. Since his 2023 presidential bid, he has been a frequent target of misinformation, often linked to his vocal critiques of the current administration.
His post today reiterated his commitment to transparency and urged Nigerians to focus on pressing national issues rather than fabricated controversies.
As of now, neither Sahara Reporters nor Sowore has issued a direct response to Obi’s accusations. The incident underscores the growing role of social media in shaping political narratives in Nigeria, where misinformation can spread rapidly. Obi’s supporters on X have rallied behind him, trending hashtags like #ObiFightsLies, while critics continue to fuel the debate.