Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has offered insight into his widely circulated appearance at a recent Imo State event where he was seen serving food to guests.
Responding to public reactions, Obi said the act was not a publicity stunt but a deliberate gesture to reinforce the values of humility and servant leadership. He clarified that the occasion, tagged “Jubilee of Hope”, was a private service-driven gathering, not a political rally, and was never intended for media attention.
“True leadership is rooted in service,” Obi said in a statement shared on his official X account. “I didn’t invite the media, nor did I post about the event. Photos and videos were shared by others.”
Obi explained that the event was designed to encourage wealthy and influential Nigerians to step into the shoes of the underprivileged, if only for a moment. He noted that other distinguished attendees—including religious leaders, corporate executives, and politicians—also participated quietly in serving guests.
Highlighting that the event was not about him, Obi said he remained at the venue longer than planned simply because many guests personally asked him to serve them.
“What I did should not be seen as extraordinary. It should be the norm,” he added. “Service is not for the cameras—it is a responsibility.”
Obi also reflected on his personal lifestyle, revealing that he continues to handle household chores himself and serves his own guests without domestic staff.
He urged political and business leaders to make service to others a cultural standard, not an occasional act.
“We must build a country where hope, dignity, and service are not symbolic, but real,” Obi concluded.
The video of the former Anambra governor’s participation has drawn both praise and criticism on social media, but Obi insists the message behind his actions is more important than the optics.
