Peter Obi Breaks Silence on $150 Million and N36 Billion Anambra Savings, Challenges Critics to Verify Bank Records

Peter Obi Breaks Silence on $150 Million and N36 Billion Anambra Savings, Challenges Critics to Verify Bank Records

Former Anambra State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi has once again defended his claim that he left office in 2014 with $150 million and N36 billion in state savings, insisting the funds were legally invested and remain verifiable.

Speaking in an interview with media entrepreneur Chude Jideonwo, published on Wednesday, Obi dismissed allegations that he personally benefited from the state's funds, stressing that every investment was transparent and made in the best interest of Anambra State.

Peter Obi Reveals Where the Money Was Invested

According to Obi, the state's savings were distributed equally across three commercial banks:

- Diamond Bank: $50 million and N12 billion

- Fidelity Bank: $50 million and N12 billion

- Access Bank: $50 million and N12 billion

He explained that the dollar deposits were invested in government-backed bonds at publicly available rates, insisting that no money was lost and that the investments generated value for the state.

«"Go to those banks. The bonds are there, the rates are publicly known. Verify the records and see if anyone has been shortchanged," Obi said.»

Peter Obi Rejects Allegations

Responding to claims that he deposited public funds in banks where he allegedly had personal interests, Obi said such allegations were politically motivated and that the records remain open for independent verification.

«"Whatever you do, people have their views," he stated.»

Peter Obi Throws Down a Challenge

Obi also challenged his critics to identify another Nigerian governor who left office with comparable savings.

«"Show me any other sub-national government in Nigeria where a governor left office with savings. One. And I'll stop running," he declared.»

The statement has reignited national conversations about transparency, prudent financial management, and accountability in public office.

Supporters and Critics Remain Divided

Peter Obi has consistently cited the savings as one of the major achievements of his administration between 2006 and 2014.

His position has been backed by some former banking executives, including Abia State Governor Alex Otti, who previously confirmed that part of the funds was invested in financial instruments.

However, Obi's successor, Willie Obiano, and other critics have disputed the claim, arguing that the administration also left behind liabilities, including debts owed to contractors, and questioning whether the reported savings reflected the state's complete financial position.

Why This Story Matters

The debate over Anambra State's finances continues to fuel discussions about leadership, accountability, and economic management in Nigeria. As political conversations intensify ahead of future elections, Obi's financial record remains one of the most closely scrutinized aspects of his legacy.

>>>> What do you think? Should an independent audit settle the debate once and for all?

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