I Never Worked In Any Government Before Becoming Governor, Asserts Peter Obi

Labour Party presidential candidate and former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has stated unequivocally that he had no prior involvement with any government — military or civilian — before becoming governor in 2006.

Obi made this assertion while speaking on a televised interview with Channels Sunday Politics, where he addressed questions surrounding his past and clarified persistent rumours linking him to previous regimes.

Obi, who has built a reputation for transparency and simplicity in leadership, emphasized that his emergence into public office was rooted solely in his business background.

“I have never worked for any government before I became governor. I have never worked for the military, and I was not a contractor. I was a very successful businessman. I was part of those controlling trade in Lagos,” he said.

He responded directly to allegations that he might have played a role under General Sani Abacha’s military rule.

He clarified that his only known interaction with government officials during that time came when traders were invited to discuss the severe congestion at Nigerian ports.

According to him, this was not a government job or political involvement, but simply a business-focused consultation on behalf of the importation and trading community.

“I have never met Abacha, and I don’t know anything about the military. I was invited to a meeting by the port authorities because we were among the biggest importers at the time. The matter was about decongesting ports. That was all,” Obi clarified.

The former governor, who is widely seen as a leading contender for the 2027 presidential election, used the opportunity to reinforce his image as a private-sector-driven leader. He noted that his governance approach — both during his time as Anambra State governor and in his presidential ambition — is shaped by his experience in the business world and not from a background in politics or government.

This clarification comes amid political debates and online discussions aimed at questioning the credibility of presidential aspirants ahead of the 2027 elections.

Obi has consistently marketed himself as an outsider to Nigeria’s traditional political elite and frequently refers to his frugal lifestyle and private sector success as proof of his suitability for national leadership.

His remarks are seen by many observers as part of a broader strategy to maintain a distinct identity in Nigerian politics—one that contrasts sharply with career politicians who have rotated through multiple government appointments.

As Obi continues to build momentum for his political future, statements like these serve to bolster his standing among young voters and reform-minded citizens who seek change from the conventional political class.

The Labour Party leader concluded the interview by reiterating his commitment to public service based on integrity, competence, and a deep understanding of Nigeria’s economic potential.