‘I Served Anambra Well’ – Obiano Speaks On Corruption Allegations

Former Governor of Anambra State, Willie Obiano, has denied corruption allegations levelled against him by a human rights organisation.

It was earlier reported that an organisation, the Human Rights, Liberty Access and Peace Defenders Foundation, had asked the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate Obiano over alleged corruption.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Executive Director of the organisation, Dede Uzor, said Obiano must be made to account for his eight years in office because he could not do anything in the state that had a direct impact on the people.

He claimed that Obiano’s legacies were glorified airports, stadiums, and all-white elephant projects used to syphon the state’s resources.

Obinao, reacting to the allegation through his spokesman, Emeka Ozumba, dismissed the claims by the group, insisting that he served Anambra well and should be left alone to have his quiet life.

Obiano’s spokesman stated that the former governor had served his term and left his mark, stressing that it is left for posterity to judge him.

Ozumba said if anybody has any case against Obiano, they should come with concrete evidence, and the former governor has the right under the law to defend himself.

He said, “I will be more concerned to know whether their claims of ‘mismanagement’ is the fact that the former governor left some legacy projects that were hitherto not available in Anambra like the international cargo airport in Umueri, the International Convention Centre that can host International events and has revenue potential for the state.

“Or that he built an oxygen centre which saved many lives when other states had none and able to supply oxygen through the period of COVID-19 season. Or is it the 20-million youth project that impacted the youths across the LGAs that the former governor did and other numerous achievements which are there to speak for him?

“If they are claiming that he ‘mismanaged’ Anambra, then they should come out with proof. I know a great number of Anambra residents will be anxious to refute their claims. The group is just seeking attention and with some tendencies and a hidden agenda.

“I will say Obiano has served his term, and with all due respect, he left his mark, it is left for posterity to judge him. If anybody has any case against him, they should come with concrete evidence, and the former governor has the right under the law to defend himself.

“Concerning his inability to conduct LG elections, I am aware there were certain things under the law which hindered the process of LG elections as of then and which the former governor abided by.”