Anambra State's Financial Dispute: Obi's Debt Claims Challenged

A financial dispute has arisen in Anambra State regarding the claims of former Governor Peter Obi, who governed from 2010 to 2014 under the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). The current administration, led by Commissioner for Finance Izuchukwu Okafor, released loan documents asserting that Obi's administration left behind external loans totaling $123.7 million, with an outstanding balance of $92.35 million.

Obi has rejected these claims, insisting in a video that he left over N75 billion in the state's coffers. This controversy echoes earlier statements from the administration of former Governor Willie Obiano, who claimed that only N9 billion was found in the state's account upon taking office.

Obiano's Secretary to the State Government, Professor Solo Chukwulobelu, stated that the government inherited liabilities totaling N185 billion, which included debts and ongoing project costs. Victor Umeh, then national chairman of APGA, also disputed Obi's savings figure, noting that Obi did not mention N75 billion in his handover note.

Obi resigned from the African Democratic Congress on May 2, 2026, and was ratified as the NDC presidential candidate on May 29, 2026.