In a statement issued in Abuja on Friday, Abonyi said he was present during the entire three-hour meeting between Obi and Adeyanju and insisted that no cash, gifts, or promises were ever made.

“I was at the meeting Deji had with Obi and stayed all through. None of what he claimed ever happened. No money was offered during or after the discussion, and there was no indication of any promise either,” Abonyi clarified.

He recalled that Adeyanju had previously, in July 2022, alleged that Obi was considering an appointment under the former APC presidential candidate Bola Tinubu a claim Abonyi privately challenged at the time.

According to him, the meeting he facilitated was simply meant to explore Adeyanju’s possible candidacy for the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) House of Representatives seat on the Labour Party’s platform, not for inducement.

“It would prick my conscience as a Christian and a journalist to allow Deji Adeyanju to continue spreading this false narrative. Obi only shared his personal and political journey, just as he often does in public. Nothing more,” he stressed.

Abonyi also expressed disappointment that Adeyanju, now a practicing lawyer, would engage in what he described as “a voyage of blackmail.” He urged him to uphold honesty and integrity if he hopes to make a meaningful impact in his legal career.