Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, has addressed public reactions to his appearance at a recent charitable gathering in Imo State, where he was seen serving food to underprivileged individuals.
The event, titled “Jubilee of Hope,” took place last week and sparked conversation across social media after images and videos emerged showing Obi distributing meals by hand. While many praised the gesture as a sign of humility, critics argued it was politically driven.
Responding to the controversy in a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday, Obi rejected claims that his actions were aimed at gaining political mileage. He explained that the gathering was designed to encourage compassion and leadership through service.
“The focus of the event was never about me,” Obi wrote. “Jubilee of Hope was created to remind us that genuine leadership lies in service, and those with means must always remember those in need.”
He clarified that the event was a private one, and he had not informed the media or sought publicity. According to him, third parties in attendance independently posted the photos and videos that later circulated online.
“As expected, critics and hired voices tried to distort something sincere and turn it into a political spectacle,” Obi added.
He emphasized that the event aimed to promote values such as empathy, fairness, and responsibility, and was meant to encourage the privileged to step down and connect with the less fortunate.
Obi noted that he was not the only one serving at the event. Prominent Nigerians, including Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Senator Osita Izunaso, and former Seplat Chairman Dr. A.B.C. Orjiako, also took part in distributing food.
Reflecting on his personal values, the former Anambra State governor said humility and simplicity are core parts of his daily life, not strategies for public attention.
“I don’t have domestic staff. I serve my guests personally. I clean, sweep, and live modestly. Humility is not a political tactic for me — it’s a way of living,” he explained.
Obi also clarified that he remained at the event longer than planned because many attendees specifically asked him to serve them directly, and he couldn’t turn them down.
“There was nothing extraordinary in what I did. I simply responded to people’s requests. Serving others shouldn’t be seen as special — it should be normal,” he said.
Calling for a change in mindset among Nigerian leaders and citizens, Obi urged everyone to embrace a culture of compassion and responsibility.
“We cannot build a better Nigeria while ignoring the poor and hungry. Acts of service shouldn’t just be symbolic — they must reflect a cultural shift,” he said. “Let’s create a nation where hope is consistent and dignity is a right for all. A new Nigeria is within reach.”
