Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has addressed the public reactions to his recent act of serving food at a social outreach event, stating that true leadership is rooted in humility and service to others. In a detailed post on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, Obi emphasized that his gesture was misinterpreted by critics and should not be politicized.
Obi’s message comes after viral images and videos showed him personally serving meals at the “Jubilee of Hope” event—an initiative aimed at supporting the poor and reminding elites of their responsibility to uplift others. The former Anambra State governor said that while his actions garnered interest, particularly because many in public leadership have abandoned the principle of service, the attention misses the real essence of the program.
“The event was not about me. It was about the people—the poor and the forgotten. The Jubilee of Hope is meant to remind us that those who have must never forget those who do not,” Obi wrote.
He clarified that he did not publicize the event, nor invite the media, and that third parties unrelated to his team were responsible for circulating the visuals.
“As expected, the usual naysayers and paid agents went to work trying to twist something sincere into something political,” he added.
Obi also revealed that other dignitaries quietly participated in the food-serving activity, including Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Senator Osita Izunaso, and Dr. A.B.C. Orjiako, former Chairman of Seplat Plc, among others.
“It wasn’t about the cameras; it was about conscience,” Obi stated.
Reflecting on his personal lifestyle, Obi said that even as a private citizen, he lives a simple life—without house help—and always serves his guests himself.
“Humility is not a campaign strategy; it is a way of life,” he emphasized.
The former presidential candidate noted that he stayed longer at the Jubilee of Hope because many underprivileged attendees requested he serve them personally—something he could not ignore.
Obi concluded his statement by calling on Nigerians, especially public office holders and business leaders, to help build a society where dignity is a right and not a privilege.
“We cannot talk of building a New Nigeria while ignoring the hungry and the poor. Events like Jubilee of Hope must not be symbolic. They must become part of our culture,” he urged.
Peter Obi’s message has since drawn both praise and renewed scrutiny online, with many Nigerians reflecting on the wider message of humility and responsibility in leadership.
Credit: @PeterObi via x.com.
Leave a Reply