Veteran journalist and columnist Ike Abonyi has firmly rejected claims made by social media activist Deji Adeyanju that Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, attempted to buy his support during the election campaign.
Abonyi, who personally arranged and attended the meeting between Obi and Adeyanju before the polls, stated unequivocally that no money or material inducement was ever discussed.
In a terse statement issued Friday in Abuja, Abonyi clarified: “I was at the meeting Deji had with Obi and was there all through. None of the things Deji claimed ever happened. No money was offered during or after the meeting, and there was no promise of any to the best of my knowledge.”
He explained that the meeting was organized to discuss Adeyanju’s potential candidacy for the AMAC House of Representatives seat under the Labour Party, not to negotiate favors or bribes.
Abonyi also recalled a previous allegation made by Adeyanju in July 2022, where the activist claimed that Obi was open to accepting an appointment from APC presidential candidate Bola Tinubu.
Abonyi revealed that he had privately challenged Adeyanju’s assertion at the time, urging him to stick to facts.
“It would be unfair to my conscience as a Christian and a journalist to allow Deji Adeyanju to continue with this false narrative. Obi simply shared his life and political journey as he has always done publicly. Nothing more”, Abonyi added.
While expressing dismay at Adeyanju’s accusations, Abonyi described them as “a voyage of blackmail,” urging the activist, who is now a lawyer, to embrace truth and integrity if he hopes to build a credible career.
He emphasized that Adeyanju’s claims misrepresent the events of the meeting and tarnish Obi’s reputation, which has long been rooted in transparency and accountability.