Former presidential candidate and Labour Party chieftain, Peter Obi, has reacted to the public buzz surrounding his participation in a recent charity event where he was seen personally serving food to less-privileged Nigerians in Imo State.
Obi, who was present at the “Jubilee of Hope” event, explained that the act of service should not be viewed as extraordinary, but rather as a basic expression of leadership rooted in empathy and humility. The event, he said, was aimed at reminding privileged Nigerians of their responsibility to uplift the poor.
“In our society today, leadership has been stripped of its service component, so people now find it strange when a leader bends down to serve others,” Obi said. “But let me be clear, the Jubilee of Hope was not about me. Its purpose was to encourage a culture where the rich come down from their high places, even if just for a moment, to serve the poor—not for show, but for the society we must build.”
Obi stated that his participation in the event was meant to be quiet and personal, and that he deliberately avoided media attention. However, he noted that some photos and videos were later shared by individuals outside his team, leading to various interpretations.
“As expected, some naysayers and paid agents tried to twist a sincere act into something political. But what I did was not unusual. As Governor, I served food at events. Even in private life, I do not have house help. I cook, sweep, and serve my guests. Humility is not a campaign tool for me—it’s how I live.”
Other notable Nigerians who participated in the event include Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Senator Osita Izunaso, and Dr. A.B.C. Orjiako, former Chairman of Seplat Plc, among others. Obi stressed that they all took part in the outreach quietly and sincerely.
He also revealed that many of the poor attendees requested that he serve them personally, a request he felt compelled to honour. “That was the only reason I stayed longer. There was nothing special about it. Service is not special; it is expected,” he said.
Obi concluded by urging Nigerians, especially public office holders and business elites, to embrace service as a cultural value and not an occasional gesture.
“We cannot speak of a New Nigeria while ignoring the hungry, the forgotten, and the poor. Let us build a country where hope is not seasonal, and dignity is not a privilege, but a right,” he said.
“A New Nigeria is possible,” he reaffirmed.
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