By Adeyemi Olusoga
The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the last presidential election, Peter Obi has cried out against an allegation that he bribed Rufai Oseni, a journalist with Arise Television to obtain favourable mentions at the media organization.
Aide to former president, Goodluck Jonathan, Reno Omokri, in a series of tweets on the micro-blogging site, X had alleged that sponsored the funeral of Oseni’s dad.
But Obi said the allegation is wicked blackmail against Oseni “the courageous journalist who has been doing his job professionally,” saying Oseni has always stood for what is right and has challenged him fearlessly on occasion.
Obi said: “Ordinarily, I do not get involved in name-calling and mud-slinging, neither do I attack people nor try to defame their personalities, in the course of my political journey. I have also avoided replying to cheap, wicked, or malicious blackmails publicly or openly in the same irresponsible manner they are thrown at me.
“Anyone who has followed my corporate and political life knows that I always stay on issues, with my focus on finding solutions to societal challenges and ameliorating people’s suffering. Let me state clearly that this is a categorical lie from the pit of hell. Everyone who understands my life will attest to the fact that I do not give anyone money to promote my name.
“I have never monetarily induced any journalist to speak or write in my favour.”
Obi also denied ever been to Oseni’s village nor know where the journalist hails from.
“Countless journalists, media personnel, the less privileged, the wealthy, etc., have all invited me to their occasions, and they will attest to the fact that I honour such invitations, especially when people are grieving,” he added.
Obi: “As it is obtainable in Igbo tradition, I always attend such events with some gifts, to support the celebrant.
“I have never been to Rufai’s village. Even at the point of writing this, I do not know where he is from. One then wonders why people could decide to tarnish other people’s image for no justifiable reason.
“To those involved in such evil endeavours, I wish them well and pray to God to have mercy on them. Our focus in Nigeria should be about rescuing the nation from the many challenges plaguing it,” he said.
