Oluchi Oparah, former National Treasurer of the Labour Party (LP), has refuted allegations that Peter Obi, the ex-governor of Anambra State and 2023 presidential candidate, used party funds to finance his campaign.
Speaking on Channels Television on Thursday night, August 7, Oparah dismissed the accusations made by LP chieftain Abayomi Arabambi as “completely false,” emphasizing that Obi personally funded his campaign and even made financial contributions to the party.
“There was nothing of such. Mr. Obi never spent any money meant for the party,” Oparah stated. “In fact, he lifted the party from zero level to where it is today.”
She recalled that before Obi’s involvement, the Labour Party was heavily indebted and unable to pay staff salaries. According to her, Obi met all his financial obligations and donated personal resources to strengthen the party.
“Mr. Obi fulfilled every financial responsibility towards the Labour Party. He never asked for a dime from the party, unlike what happens in other political parties,” she added.
Oparah further explained that campaign financing for candidates was managed through separate accounts, distinct from the party’s official funds, and that Obi personally funded many LP programs.
“The Labour Party didn’t have a dime. Mr. Obi spent from his own money,” she reiterated.
On governance, Oparah criticized what she described as a lack of accountability under the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), urging Nigerians to focus on holding the government accountable rather than targeting Obi.
She challenged accusers to provide evidence, stating, “Anyone making such claims should show us the particular account where the money was lodged.”
Oparah also highlighted Obi’s long-standing philanthropic nature, describing it as an integral part of his character well before his presidential run.
“Anyone who knows Mr. Obi knows that his acts of charity are like the air he breathes,” she concluded.
