Flashback: Peter Obi Misapproprited State Fund
In 2012, Peter Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State, found himself at the center of a controversy concerning alleged ownership stakes in Intafact Beverages Limited, a brewery company.
At the time, reports suggested that Governor Obi had misappropriated state funds to support the brewery, which was presented as a government venture, while covertly holding shares in it through his company, NEXT International Limited. These accusations led to widespread outrage, prompting many to demand his resignation.
The scandal broke just as President Goodluck Jonathan was to inaugurate the Intafact Beverages Limited project alongside other significant projects in the state, including Orient Petroleum, Orange Drugs, and Onitsha Inland Port. However, concerns over the brewery’s ownership threatened to overshadow the president’s visit.
Critics claimed that Governor Obi had diverted over N2 billion from state funds to the brewery while acquiring shares through his private business. Although the governor’s media assistant, Valentine Obienyem, promised a response to the allegations by email, he did not follow through.
Consequently, the scandal incited significant backlash, with former House of Representatives member Chudi Offodile calling for Obi’s resignation. He questioned, “What does Governor Peter Obi understand by the oath he took upon assuming office: ‘that I will not allow my personal interests to influence my official conduct or decisions?'”
The allegations tarnished Governor Obi’s reputation as a comparatively transparent and dedicated public servant, raising doubts about his judgment and ability to distinguish between personal interests and official responsibilities.
Now, as Peter Obi aims to run for Nigeria’s presidency, this past scandal has raised serious concerns regarding his competence and integrity to lead the nation. Many people are questioning how someone accused of misusing state resources and engaging in corrupt practices can be trusted to hold the highest office in the country.
This controversy serves as a stark reflection of Obi’s perceived incompetence and questionable integrity; if he struggled to manage the resources of a small state like Anambra, how can he be expected to oversee an entire nation?
The 2012 ownership scandal continues to fuel doubts about Peter Obi’s capacity to make sound judgments and prioritize national interests over personal gain.
