N744.5m Spent on Election Lawsuits - Peter Obi Campaign team

The fundraising team for the Obi-Datti Presidential Campaign Organization has revealed that Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, expended a significant sum of N744,500,000 on litigation following his defeat in the 2023 presidential election.

Aisha Yesufu, the chairperson of the fundraising team, disclosed this during a press conference held on Thursday in Abuja.

Yesufu provided an overview of the LP's election spending, stating that the party received donations totaling N596 million from party supporters, including contributions from the Obidient movements and Nigerians worldwide.

She emphasized the importance of accountability and transparency, detailing that donations amounting to N595,976,994 were raised through four financial institutions, including Zenith Bank and Heritage Bank. Additionally, N800 million was contributed by the candidate, Peter Obi. Yesufu acknowledged the generosity of many individuals and vendors who supported the campaign without seeking immediate payment.

The campaign strategy involved providing direct and indirect support to over 100 groups across all 36 states in Nigeria, along with media campaigns reaching over 11 million people through 40 radio stations, community outreach, and social media platforms.

Contrary to reports, Yesufu clarified that polling unit agents were indeed compensated, with N324 million allocated for their mobilization. However, financial constraints limited the utilization of television advertisements for the campaign.

A total of N258,374,330 was spent on procuring and distributing campaign materials across the 36 states and Abuja, with N16,432,867 allocated for media expenses including radio broadcasts. Election promotion incurred expenses of N10,808,948, while N744,500,000 was allocated to cover legal fees.

Expressing gratitude to all donors, Yesufu concluded the statement.

In the February 25, 2023, presidential election, Peter Obi garnered 6,101,533 votes, securing third place behind the winner, Bola Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress. Despite contesting the results, the Supreme Court upheld Tinubu's victory on October 26, 2023, after 171 days of legal proceedings.