Former Labor Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has defended his decision to collaborate with Nasir El-Rufai and Abubakar Malami despite ongoing corruption allegations against them.
Speaking during an interview on Magic FM in Aba, Obi addressed criticism surrounding his association with members of the African Democratic Congress who are currently facing legal challenges.
He argued that engaging with individuals under investigation does not amount to endorsing wrongdoing, but rather creates an opportunity to influence change if they are eventually found guilty.
“When Jesus came here, his friends were tax collectors and prostitutes because it was part of what he was trying to change,” Obi said.
He also pointed out that neither El-Rufai nor Malami has been convicted by any court, stressing the importance of due process and questioning what he described as selective enforcement of the law.
Obi noted that both men had previously held key government positions and contributed to public service, raising concerns about the timing and nature of the scrutiny they now face.
Nasir El-Rufai was recently arraigned by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offenses Commission over allegations of fraud and money laundering, while Abubakar Malami, alongside members of his family, is facing a 16-count charge of alleged money laundering filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. They have all pleaded not guilty.
Obi further revealed his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election on the ADC platform, expressing confidence in his qualifications.
According to him, his experience in business, banking, and governance places him in a strong position among those seeking the party’s ticket.
The remarks have sparked fresh debate over political alliances, accountability, and the balance between legal presumption of innocence and public perception in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
