Abia State governor Alex Otti has reaffirmed claims that former Anambra State governor Peter Obi left behind a net positive balance of approximately ₦87 billion when he exited office in March 2014.
Otti, who previously served as chief executive of Diamond Bank during Obi’s administration, stated that the funds included about ₦27 billion in local investments as well as $156 million in foreign currency assets. According to him, the figures were arrived at after accounting for liabilities such as outstanding salaries and other financial obligations.
He explained that the savings were not kept as idle cash but were tied to structured financial instruments including Eurobonds and bank capital investments designed to preserve and grow the state’s assets.
The remarks have reignited long-running debates over Obi’s economic legacy in Anambra State, particularly amid ongoing political discussions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Supporters of Obi view Otti’s statement as further validation of the former governor’s reputation for fiscal discipline, prudent management, and conservative spending. They argue that Obi’s administration demonstrated unusual financial caution at a time when many Nigerian states relied heavily on borrowing.
Otti also highlighted several achievements recorded during Obi’s tenure, including the construction and rehabilitation of about 900 kilometers of roads, settlement of pension obligations, and investments in education and healthcare infrastructure.
However, the claims remain contested by some of Obi’s successors and critics. Former Anambra governors Willie Obiano and Charles Soludo have previously questioned the narrative surrounding the handover funds, arguing that the state inherited substantial debts and liabilities despite the reported savings.
Critics have also argued that some of the investments cited were not immediately accessible liquid assets and therefore should not be interpreted as readily available cash reserves. Others contend that greater emphasis should have been placed on infrastructure expansion and industrial development during Obi’s administration.
The renewed discussion reflects the growing scrutiny of political track records as major political actors reposition themselves ahead of future elections. Analysts say Obi’s years as governor of Anambra remain central to both his national appeal and the criticisms leveled against him by opponents.
Political observers note that debates over public finance, debt management, and development priorities are likely to feature prominently in future political campaigns, especially as Nigerians continue to grapple with economic hardship and demands for accountable governance.
For now, Otti’s reaffirmation has once again placed Obi’s stewardship of Anambra State at the center of national political discourse, reinforcing the sharp divide between supporters who praise his fiscal discipline and critics who question the broader developmental impact of his administration.
