Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has addressed public reactions following his participation in a charity event in Imo State, where he was seen personally serving food to less privileged individuals.
The event, titled “Jubilee of Hope,” took place last week and sparked mixed reactions on social media after images and videos of Obi dishing out meals went viral. While some commended the gesture as an act of humility, others dismissed it as political showmanship.
In a post shared via his X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, Obi clarified the intentions behind his actions, emphasizing that his presence at the event was never about publicity.
“Let me be clear, that event was not about me. It was called the Jubilee of Hope, and its purpose is straightforward — to remind us all that true leadership is service, and that those who have must never forget those who do not,” he said.
Obi explained that the event was private, and he did not invite media coverage. He noted that third parties were responsible for the photos and videos that surfaced online.
“As expected, the usual naysayers and paid agents went to work trying to twist something sincere into something political,” he added.
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According to him, the goal of the Jubilee of Hope was to encourage a culture of empathy, fairness, and shared responsibility, where leaders step away from their privilege to connect with the less fortunate.
“I was not the only one who served that day. Many well-meaning and distinguished Nigerians also participated, including Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Senator Osita Izunaso, and former Seplat Chairman Dr. A.B.C. Orjiako,” he stated.
Obi reiterated that his approach to leadership has always been guided by humility and simplicity.
“I do not have a house help. When guests visit my home, I serve them myself. I live simply, I sweep, I clean, because for me, humility is not a campaign strategy; it is a way of life,” he declared.
He also explained why he remained at the event longer than expected, saying, “I could not ignore them. That was the only reason. Otherwise, there was nothing special about what I did. Service is not special — it is expected.”
Obi concluded by calling on Nigerian leaders and citizens alike to embrace a lifestyle rooted in service, adding that addressing poverty and restoring dignity must be at the heart of building a new nation.
“We cannot speak of building a New Nigeria while ignoring the hungry, the forgotten, and the poor. Events like this must not remain symbolic, they must become cultural. Let us work together to build a country where hope is not seasonal, and dignity is not a privilege, but a right. A new Nigeria is possible,” he added.
