The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has responded to the allegation that he is inciting people of the south-east against the federal government.

The former governor of Anambra said the allegation is a “baseless distraction” designed to tarnish his character.

He averred that his “focus is on fostering constructive dialogue and inclusivity, rather than engaging in divisive politics”.

Obi said he would not reduce himself to the level of those who wallow in ethnic politics.

“Regarding allegations of incitement against the government, I firmly reject these unfounded accusations aimed at tarnishing my character,” Obi wrote on X.

“My focus is on fostering constructive dialogue and inclusivity, rather than engaging in divisive politics.

“Claims of incitement are baseless distractions. I have always advocated for unity and advancement, refusing to partake in reactionary divisive politics.

“Worse still, I have never and can never descend so low as to base my political aspirations on any sectional or ethnic interest.”

THE INCITEMENT ALLEGATION

David Umahi, minister of works, on Wednesday accused Obi of inciting people of the south-east against the federal government over the Lagos-Calabar coastal road project.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting in Lagos, Umahi said Obi implemented the demolition of structures for road infrastructure while he was governor of Anambra.

The minister condemned Obi for criticising the federal government over the project, adding that affected property owners are already being compensated.

Obi has repeatedly criticised the federal government for the construction, describing the project as a misplaced priority.

The former Anambra governor said the “insensitive” demolition of structures for the project was “heart-wrenching”.

Recently, the federal government commenced the construction of the 700-kilometre Lagos-Calabar coastal road, which is expected to run through the shoreline of beach resorts in Lagos, while traversing eight other states.

The project has elicited controversy over funding, and the businesses that would be affected during construction.

RESPONSE ON DEMOLITIONS AS ANAMBRA GOVERNOR

Responding to Umahi on demolition of structures, Obi said while he was governor, he clearly stated that all structures obstructing existing roads and lacking approval would be removed.

The former Anambra governor challenged anyone to show evidence on whether the “demolished structures on existing roads or ongoing businesses were not encroaching on the road and built without government approval”.

He added that it amounts to false equivalence to compare his actions as governor with the current Lagos-Calabar coastal road project.

Obi said he “never proposed creating a new road that would disrupt existing structures”.

“My actions were strategic, aiming to prioritise the repair and maintenance of existing infrastructure over projects that risked disruption and destruction,” Obi added.

“This approach aimed to safeguard the livelihoods of Nigerians and ensure the efficient use of resources.”

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and Cubana Chief Priest have agreed to settle out of court concerning the naira abuse case against the nightlife promoter.

Cubana arrived at the federal high court, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Thursday for the continuation of his trial.

On April 16, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) filed a three-count charge against him over alleged naira abuse.

He was arraigned the following day. When the charges were read, the social media celebrity pleaded not guilty.

Kehinde Ogundare, the judge, thereafter granted him bail in the sum of N10 million with two responsible sureties in like sum.

The judge ruled that the bail conditions must be perfected within seven days.

Cubana was released to his lawyer who must give an undertaken to produce him later. The trial was adjourned to May 2 for continuation.

During sitting, both parties agreed to settle the matter out of court. The trial was then adjourned to June 5 for the hearing of the settlement report.

The social media celebrity is well known for his luxurious lifestyle.

Cubana is also known for his affiliation with Davido, the Afrobeats singer.

He served as the general manager of Cubana Groups but left the brand in September 2020 and established Club Xhrine in Owerri, Imo.

The nightlife promoter was honoured with a doctor of science in event and luxury hospitality management degree from the European American University in 2021.

In January 2022, Cubana was appointed as a social media aide to Hope Uzodinma, the governor of Imo state.

In a remarkable celebration of heritage and innovation, Wema Bank, Nigeria’s most innovative bank and pioneer of Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has announced a joint celebration marking Wema Bank’s 79th years and ALAT’s 7 years anniversaries.

This significant celebration not only commemorates nearly eight decades of exceptional service and innovation in the Nigerian banking sector but also celebrates the bank’s seven years of digital excellence with ALAT.

Since its inception in 1945, Wema Bank has been at the forefront of financial innovation, constantly adapting to meet the evolving needs of its customers. Over the decades, the bank has evolved from a regional bank to a national bank, adapting continuously to meet the dynamic needs of its customers and establishing itself as a pillar of trust and reliability for millions of individuals and businesses across Nigeria.

According to the MD/CEO Wema Bank, Mr. Moruf Oseni, the bank’s evolution from being Nigeria’s oldest indigenous bank to being at the forefront of innovation, pioneering Africa’s first fully digital bank, ALAT, has been a true story of resilience and transformation.

“At 79, Wema Bank stand stronger than ever, and this achievement would not have been possible without the support of our customers and employees. We thank them for believing in the Wema vision, for entrusting their financial security to us, and for allowing us to contribute to their personal and professional aspirations. Their faith in us is deeply cherished, and we are honored to serve them.”

“As we mark our 79th year today, we reaffirm our commitment to empowering lives through innovation, and exceeding our customers expectations with unparalleled banking experiences tailored to their needs. Our pledge is to stand by our customers through every stage of life, offering enabling platforms to accelerate their growth and propel them to extraordinary heights.”

“While the past 79 years have been remarkable, we anticipate that the coming decades will be even more inspiring. With the partnership of our customers and employees, Wema Bank is poised to set new standards in financial services and redefine the future.” He concluded.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, Wema Bank and ALAT are rolling out a series of customer-focused activities designed to reward loyalty and enhance the customer experience. Throughout the anniversary month, customers will enjoy various promotions, including discounts on transactions, cash prizes, special loan offers and much more.

This anniversary is more than a celebration; it’s a reaffirmation of Wema Bank’s resilience and ongoing commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction in a competitive industry. Both Wema Bank and ALAT are poised for further growth, with strategic initiatives designed to enhance customer-centric services and expand the reach yearsw capability of digital banking solutions.