Abati Fires Back at Allegations: "I Never Begged Wike for Money"

In a dramatic turn of events, former presidential media aide Reuben Abati has vehemently denied allegations made by Lere Olayinka, a media aide to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike. The allegations, which surfaced on Arise News’ "The Morning Show" on Friday, claimed that Abati had requested money from Wike, sparking a heated exchange between the two.

At the center of the controversy is Olayinka’s assertion that Abati had solicited funds from Wike, a claim that Abati has swiftly and categorically denied. In a statement posted on social media on Saturday, Abati stated, "I have never approached Minister Nyesom Wike to beg for money – that is a lie." He further emphasized, "If anyone – including an ex-partner – went to him under false pretences to solicit funds in my name, I place a clear disclaimer. Such actions were not authorised by me, and Minister Wike reserves every right to call it out as fraud."

Abati also addressed another allegation, insisting that he was never asked by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to return any money. According to Abati, the EFCC, under the leadership of former chairman Ibrahim Magu, even apologized to him over the issue. This revelation adds another layer to the complex web of allegations and denials, leaving many to wonder about the true nature of the relationship between Abati and Wike.

As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Abati is determined to clear his name and set the record straight. By denying the allegations and providing context to the claims made against him, Abati aims to restore his reputation and maintain the trust of his audience. The outcome of this heated exchange remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – the drama between Abati and Olayinka has captivated the attention of many, sparking a wider conversation about the intricacies of Nigerian politics and the importance of transparency and accountability.

In the end, Abati’s fervent denial of the allegations serves as a powerful reminder of the need for truth and clarity in public discourse. As the story continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the situation unfolds and what implications it may have for the parties involved. For now, Abati’s statement stands as a testament to his commitment to setting the record straight and upholding the values of honesty and integrity.