The Presidency on Wednesday dismissed allegations by the Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi, that he is being targeted by the Federal Government, describing the claims as false and an attempt to portray himself as a victim.
In a statement titled “Peter Obi’s New Lies,” the Presidency said Obi’s recent comments alleging intimidation by the government were unfounded and designed to attract public sympathy.
Obi had claimed that an incident involving his vehicle at an airport and what he described as increasing pressure on individuals not to associate with him were evidence that he was being targeted.
He also expressed fears that he might not be alive to contest the 2027 presidential election.
Reacting, the Presidency rejected the allegations, insisting that the Tinubu administration had neither the time nor the inclination to persecute the former Anambra State governor.
It described Obi’s claims as “baseless” and accused him of attempting to drag the government into what it called his personal inconveniences.
According to the statement, the airport incident cited by Obi appeared to have resulted from his failure to comply with parking regulations rather than any government action.
The Presidency further alleged that Obi had developed a pattern of making unverifiable claims against the government, arguing that his latest comments were intended to divert attention from his political challenges and attract undue sympathy.
It also dismissed suggestions that the government was targeting Fidelity Bank because of Obi’s reported interests in the financial institution.
According to the Presidency, the bank continues to thrive under the current administration’s economic reforms, adding that there was no basis for claims that it was under any form of government persecution.
“The government is certainly not targeting the bank. Rather than being haunted by the government, Mr Obi appears to be grappling with the consequences of his unfounded statements,” the statement said.
The Presidency maintained that President Bola Tinubu’s administration remained focused on implementing economic reforms and improving the welfare of Nigerians.
It added that the government would not be distracted by what it described as Obi’s “self-serving narratives” and insisted that the administration’s priority remained consolidating reforms for national development.
(The Whistler)
