2023 Polls: LP To Audit Campaign Funds, Says Peter Obi

The Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, assured on Thursday that the party would provide a transparent breakdown of campaign funds. This commitment came amidst recent turmoil within the party regarding the sale of forms and other fundraising activities for the 2023 general elections.

Addressing reporters at a press conference in Abuja, Obi pledged to ensure accountability as the party's leader. He announced plans to engage a reputable audit firm to scrutinize the party's finances, emphasizing the need for thorough investigation and reconciliation of allegations.

"I have made it clear that all funds, whether received directly or indirectly, will be subject to transparent accountability. As a member of the party, entrusted with leadership responsibilities, we must uphold integrity in our financial dealings," Obi affirmed.

He further stated, "We are committed to transparency and will address the current allegations through a comprehensive audit process. It's essential to establish clarity and restore confidence within the party."

Following the elections, the LP pursued legal action after Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress was declared the winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). However, the party has not disclosed the expenditure on legal fees incurred from the Presidential Election Petitions Tribunal (PEPT) to the Supreme Court.

During the press briefing, the Obi/Baba-Ahmed Presidential Campaign Organisation revealed spending over N744,500,000 in litigation costs related to the 2023 presidential election.

Aisha Yesufu, Chairman of the Fundraising Team, also disclosed receiving donations totaling N595,976,994.00 from Nigerians.

"Accountability and transparency are paramount. We encouraged donations with the promise of transparent utilization. We are grateful to all who contributed financially or otherwise. From citizen donations, we received N595,976,994, along with funds from the candidate himself, Peter Obi," Yesufu concluded.