Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has explained his decision to serve food at a recent event in Imo State, a gesture that sparked widespread debate after a photo of the moment went viral on social media.
Addressing the public via his official X handle, Obi said he was simply responding to the wishes of some of the poor attendees who had asked him to serve them personally.
He noted that the event, themed Jubilee of Hope, was aimed at encouraging the wealthy to step out of their comfort zones and serve the less privileged in society.
“There was nothing extraordinary about what I did,” Obi wrote. “The goal was for the rich to come down from their high places and serve the poor.”
He wrote: “My weekend activity of serving food at a special event has been generating interest, as expectedly, because leaders in our society have removed the service component in leadership.
“It’s sounding strange that I was seen serving food to people. 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.
“When I attended the Jubilee of Hope in Imo State, it was a private service event. I did not post about it, nor did I invite media coverage. Unfortunately, some third parties, completely outside of my team, shared photos and videos. As expected, the usual naysayers and paid agents went to work trying to twist something sincere into something political.
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“But let me restate the heart of the matter, the Jubilee of Hope is designed for the rich to come down from their high places, even if just for a moment, and serve the poor, not as a show, but as a symbol of the society we must build. A society anchored on empathy, equity, and responsibility.
“I was not the only one who served that day. Many well-meaning and distinguished Nigerians also participated, people like Cardinal Onaiyekan, Senator Osita Izunaso, former Chairman of Seplat Plc, Dr. A.B.C. Orjiako, and many others, quietly and sincerely. It wasn’t about the cameras; it was about conscience.
“I am genuinely surprised that this simple act has become a topic of discussion. As Governor, I always served others whenever we had events. Even now, in private life, 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.
“At the Jubilee of Hope, I stayed longer because many of the poor attendees requested that I serve them personally. 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.
“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. Public office holders, business leaders, and everyday citizens must unite in lifting others.
“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.”
