‘Jesus associated with tax collectors, prostitutes’ — Peter Obi defends hobnobbing with corrupt politicians

Peter Obi has defended his alliance with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) by comparing his outreach to reform-minded biblical figures and questioning the “selective” prosecution of former officials like Nasir El-Rufai and Abubakar Malami

Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has defended his decision to collaborate with members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), despite various corruption allegations surrounding some figures within the party. Speaking during an interview on Magic FM Aba in Abia State on Saturday, April 4, 2026, Obi argued that political engagement provides a unique platform for reform and positive influence. Drawing a bold biblical parallel to justify his stance, he compared his approach to that of Jesus Christ. “When Jesus came here, his friends were tax collectors and prostitutes because it’s all part of what he was trying to change. It was all part of what he was trying to build as a person,” Obi stated, suggesting that inclusion is a prerequisite for national transformation.

Beyond his defense of the ADC alliance, Obi launched a scathing critique of the current administration’s anti-corruption drive, labeling it a tool for “political persecution.” He specifically pointed to the recent legal troubles of former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai—who was recently remanded in ICPC custody. Obi questioned the timing and intent behind these high-profile cases, noting that many who served the previous administration are now being unfairly targeted. “Most of them are actually facing persecution, because yesterday, they were the people who were saints,” he remarked, adding, “Everybody knows the contributions of Malami and El-Rufai to the present government. So why are they being persecuted?”

Obi further alleged that the rule of law is being “selectively applied” to silence potential political opponents while others with more questionable records remain untouched. He contended that the current government is focusing its investigative resources on specific individuals while “people who have done worse are moving around like stars.” This commentary comes as Obi continues to consolidate his political base ahead of the 2027 general elections, signaling a willingness to build a broad-based coalition that includes embattled figures from the previous political order. By framing these prosecutions as partisan, Obi appears to be positioning himself as a defender of due process against what he describes as a targeted campaign to destabilize the opposition.

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