Renowned journalist, author, and columnist, Ike Abonyi, has dismissed claims by social media activist, Deji Adeyanju, that the Labour Party (LP) Presidential Candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, offered him money for support.

Abonyi, who said he personally brokered and attended the meeting between Obi and Adeyanju ahead of the elections, described Adeyanju’s allegations as false.

In a statement released in Abuja on Friday, Abonyi explained that Obi never made any monetary or material offer during their three-hour discussion, contrary to Adeyanju’s account on social media.

“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,” Abonyi said.

He recalled that in July 2022, Adeyanju had also suggested that Obi was open to accepting an appointment from the then APC Presidential Candidate, Bola Tinubu—another claim Abonyi privately challenged at the time.

According to Abonyi, the meeting he arranged was intended to explore Adeyanju’s possible candidacy for the AMAC House of Representatives seat under the Labour Party, not for inducement.

“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,” he added.

Abonyi further expressed disappointment that Adeyanju, now a lawyer, would still peddle what he called “a voyage of blackmail,” urging him to uphold truth and honour if he hopes to grow in his profession. (Saturday Vanguard, but headline rejigged)