By BONIFACE AKARAH

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential frontrunner, Peter Obi, has distanced himself from Daniel Bwala, rejecting claims that he attempted to engage the lawyer in political dealings and declaring that he has no interest in what his media office described as transactional politics.

In a statement issued on Friday and signed by its spokesman, Ibrahim Umar, the Peter Obi Media Reach (POMR) said Obi has no political relationship with Bwala and excludes individuals associated with transactional politics from his activities.

“Normally, we would not dignify Barrister Bwala’s baseless accusations with a reply, given his well-documented history of dishonesty. However, we feel it is necessary to address this matter for the benefit of the public who may be misled,” the statement said.

POMR maintained that Obi, the 2023 Labour Party Presidential Candidate and former Anambra State Governor, does not engage in politics driven by financial inducement or personal patronage.

“Our principal, Peter Obi, has made it clear that he excludes individuals like Bwala from his political activities and any form of transactional politics that sustain people like him in political circles,” the statement said.

The media office added that Obi would rather channel resources toward social development than sponsor misinformation.

“He would rather allocate resources to provide desks for children in Bwala’s village than pay him to concoct falsehoods for public consumption,” the statement added.

According to POMR, Obi’s political engagement is based on persuasion and shared commitment to national development rather than monetary incentives.

“Obi’s engagement focuses on persuasion, emphasising the urgent need for a collective effort to rescue our nation. He welcomes those who choose to join him voluntarily, driven by the same deep-seated convictions,” Umar said.

The organisation also urged individuals involved in what it described as transactional politics to reconsider their actions.

“For the umpteenth time, we call on Bwala and others like him to count Peter Obi out of their greed, repent, and join us in the quest for a new Nigeria that is indeed possible,” the statement said.