Kenneth Okonkwo Makes Dramatic U-Turn on Peter Obi’s Anambra Debt Record

A prominent opposition chieftain and actor-turned-politician, Kenneth Okonkwo, has made a dramatic U-turn, admitting that he was misled when he vigorously defended former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi against allegations of leaving behind state debts and unpaid liabilities.

Okonkwo made the confession during a televised current affairs interview, pointing to fresh data and conflicting disclosures emerging from the Anambra State Government regarding the true fiscal state of the legacy handed over by Obi.

Recalling his fervent defense during the 2023 general election cycle, Okonkwo noted that he had staked his personal reputation on assertions that Obi’s administration did not owe salaries, pensions, gratuities, or external loans. However, he noted that subsequent records—pointing to multiple loan portfolios and unliquidated institutional arrears, such as those tied to the state-owned water corporation—forced him to review his position.

“You know me, I’m a very passionate person in whatever I believe in. Let me tell you because I was misled,” Okonkwo stated. “There was a time I told Nigerians that Peter Obi was not owing anything, did not leave any debt… And I said, go and verify. I’m not a man that stands on my own misunderstanding. When I see the facts, I agree.”

Okonkwo emphasized that his current discoveries mean he can no longer repeat the absolute defenses he offered in the past. Outlining his political outlook toward the fast-approaching 2027 elections, he contrasted his previous support with a more rigorous vetting stance.

“That’s why I said in 2023, I campaigned for them as the examination in chief. In 2027, it’s going to be a cross-examination,” he declared.

The high-profile recantation has ignited fresh political conversations across digital platforms, drawing varied reactions as opposition figures navigate evolving alliances and historical accountability ahead of the next electoral cycle.