Obi Responds to Charity Video: “Service is Not Publicity, It’s a Way of Life”

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, has addressed the social media buzz surrounding his participation in a charity event in Imo State, where he was seen serving food to the less privileged.

The event, known as Jubilee of Hope, held last week, sparked mixed reactions online after videos and photos showed Obi personally handing out meals. While some praised the gesture as genuine, others dismissed it as politically driven.

In a statement on Sunday via his X handle, Obi dismissed claims of political theatrics, insisting the event was meant to promote compassion and leadership through service.

“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 stressed that he did not invite media coverage and that photos were shared by third parties.

“As expected, the usual naysayers and paid agents went to work trying to twist something sincere into something political,” he said.

He added that the event was designed to symbolise a society based on “empathy, equity, and responsibility,” where elites step down from privilege to serve others.

“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 further reiterated that simplicity and humility are values he lives by, not tools for campaigning.

“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 clarified that he stayed longer at the event because several people personally asked him to serve them.

“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 noted.

Urging a change in mindset, Obi called on Nigeria’s elite to embrace a culture of compassion.

“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.