Speaking in an interview, Obi’s former campaign spokesman and National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Dr Yunusa Tanko, said there was no cause for alarm, insisting that the former Anambra State governor has no criminal record.

He maintained that Obi has never been indicted for corruption by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) or the Department of State Services (DSS).

Alleged Watchlist Claims

Tanko’s comments follow reports suggesting that Obi and other opposition figures linked to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) could be targeted amid the ongoing legal troubles of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai.

Other names reportedly mentioned in political circles include former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola and former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi.

Tanko, however, said Obi and his supporters would not be intimidated.

“Peter Obi would be as clean as a whistle,” he stated, alleging that any perceived pressure on opposition figures is politically motivated and linked to the 2027 elections.

He further claimed that attempts were already underway to manipulate the electoral process, alleging that legislative actions and political realignments were designed to weaken opposition voices.

Opposition Under Pressure

The remarks come amid heightened political tension following investigations and prosecutions involving prominent opposition figures.

In recent months, former Attorney General of the Federation Abubakar Malami was arrested by the EFCC and charged in court over fraud allegations. He is reportedly being held by the DSS despite being granted bail.

El-Rufai is also facing legal challenges, including investigations by the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), over alleged misconduct.

The succession of legal cases has fueled speculation within opposition circles that anti-corruption probes could intensify as the 2027 race approaches.

Beyond Obi, figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Amaechi remain central to discussions about the ADC’s potential presidential ticket.

While authorities have not officially linked ongoing investigations to electoral politics, the situation has deepened mistrust between opposition actors and the ruling establishment as the next election cycle gradually comes into focus.