Obi Calls for LP Accounts Audit Amid Allegations
Presidential candidate Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP) has demanded an audit of the party’s accounts amidst corruption allegations against LP National Chairman Julius Abure. The call comes in the wake of allegations of fraud levied by the suspended National Treasurer, Oluchi Opara, against Abure, amounting to N3.5 billion.
At a press conference on Monday, Opara challenged Abure to explain the whereabouts of funds raised from the sale of nomination forms and other fundraising activities leading up to the 2023 general elections. However, on Thursday, Abure challenged Opara to provide substantial evidence to support her claims of embezzlement.
In a surprising turn of events on Wednesday, the party leadership imposed a six-month suspension on Opara for failing to attend a probe meeting and tarnishing the party’s reputation. Opara, expressing dismay, claimed betrayal even from Obi, alleging that he was aware of the financial misconduct.
In response, Obi disclosed that he had advised the party’s National Working Committee during a meeting to conduct an audit of the party’s finances to address the allegations. Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Obi emphasized the importance of transparency, stating, “When I am involved anywhere money is, it must be transparent.”
He further urged individuals and support groups within the party who received funds on its behalf to cooperate with the audit process and be accountable for their actions. Obi reiterated his commitment to resolving the allegations through thorough investigation and reconciliation.
Meanwhile, Abure, appearing as a guest on an Arise TV program, reiterated his innocence and challenged Opara to provide evidence supporting her claims. He countered Opara’s allegations, stating that the total funds received by the party amounted to N1.3 billion, with an additional N800 million allocated for the campaign. Abure urged Opara to produce records demonstrating the alleged missing N3.5 billion.
The unfolding saga within the LP underscores the urgent need for transparency and accountability in political party finances, as stakeholders await the outcome of the proposed audit to ascertain the truth behind the allegations.
Credit: Punch News