Peter Obi Sets the Record Straight: Denies Secret Meeting with Tinubu in Rome.
By Ella Michaels
Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has vehemently denied allegations of having a private meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Rome regarding an alleged N225 billion debt crisis involving Fidelity Bank. In a statement on X, Obi described the claims as "false, malicious, and baseless," attributing them to paid blackmailers who are propagating negativity against him.
A Spiritual Trip to Rome
Obi clarified that he was in Rome for the lying in state of late Pope Francis and the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, a solemn spiritual trip that was twisted into yet another blackmail campaign by merchants of negativity. He emphasized that he has never sought an audience with, nor met, President Tinubu since he assumed office, except for a brief greeting at the inauguration Mass of Pope Leo XIV, where Obi respectfully greeted the President and other dignitaries present.
A Clear Itinerary
Obi provided a clear itinerary of his trip, stating that he was previously in Rome on May 9 for the lying in state of Pope Francis, and immediately after the inauguration Mass, he went straight from Vatican City to London, and then back to Nigeria. He expressed disappointment that his activities were being misrepresented and twisted to fit a false narrative.
Setting the Record Straight
Obi also addressed claims that he owns Fidelity Bank, stating that he does not. He explained that he served as Chairman/Director of three banks/Financial institutions, including Fidelity, which has over 500,000 shareholders, none of whom hold a majority stake. Obi expressed concern that the blackmailers seek to harm these hard-working Nigerians and cause them needless distress.
A Message to the Blackmailers
In his statement, Obi offered a simple prayer to those peddling falsehoods and engaging in blackmail: "May God grant you the virtues of gratitude and understanding to know that we came here with nothing and will go with nothing, that they cannot profit from their evil ways." He reaffirmed his commitment to his values and principles, stating that "a new Nigeria is possible."
Conclusion
Obi's statement serves as a reminder of the importance of truth and accuracy in public discourse. By setting the record straight, Obi has demonstrated his commitment to transparency and accountability, and has urged Nigerians to reject the spread of falsehoods and negativity.
