PETER OBI HAS NO INFLUENCE OVER NDC PARTY AFFAIRS – VICTOR UMEH. (PHOTO).

 Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, has firmly stated that the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, exerts no influence on party decisions or candidate selections.

Umeh made the clarification on Monday during an interview, while addressing speculations and allegations that he was involved in influencing positions within the party.

The NDC has come under heavy criticism following its recently concluded primary elections across the country. In response to claims linking Obi to the process, Umeh distanced the former Anambra governor from any involvement.

“Peter Obi has not been involved in influencing who becomes what in the NDC. He’s somebody whom you can hardly see drag into a process like this,” Senator Umeh said.

He added that in Obi’s local government area, residents are fully aware of developments and do not require directives from him on whom to support.

Umeh attributed his own decision to join the NDC to the party’s leadership under Senator Seriake Dickson. “It’s because he’s the chairman or the leader of that party that made us join the party, because I work with him in the Senate, and I know his character. I know he stands on national issues,” he explained.

The senator noted that the entry of Peter Obi and former Kano Governor Rabi’u Kwankwaso into the NDC triggered a surge of aspirants seeking various positions. He dismissed complaints of extortion during the primaries, saying those making the claims were attempting to manipulate the process and ultimately “had their fingers burnt.”