Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has finally addressed the public following the circulation of videos and photos showing him serving food at a recent event, an act that has sparked widespread discussion online and offline.
It would be recalled that the respected politician became the center of attention after he was seen personally serving food to attendees during an event that took place in Imo State. This unexpected gesture drew mixed reactions from Nigerians, with many praising him for his humility, while others accused him of putting up a mere show to win public sympathy and score political points.
While some social media users described the act as a reflection of true servant leadership and evidence of his down-to-earth nature, others argued that it was a carefully staged stunt designed to mislead the public about his intentions and values.
Reacting to the trending topic through a lengthy post on his X page, Peter Obi expressed genuine surprise that such a simple act of service could generate so much attention and controversy. He explained that it has always been his natural disposition to serve people, whether in his private home or during public events.
He stated …
“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.”
Peter Obi went on to explain that the Jubilee of Hope event in Imo State was a private initiative aimed at encouraging influential and wealthy individuals to step down from their elevated positions and connect with the poor in a spirit of humility and compassion. He clarified that he did not post about the event or invite media attention, but some third parties outside his team decided to share photos and videos online, which led to unnecessary misinterpretations and negative spin by critics.
“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,” Obi emphasized.
He further revealed that he was not the only prominent figure serving at the event. Several respected individuals, including Cardinal Onaiyekan, Senator Osita Izunaso, and former Chairman of Seplat Plc, Dr. A.B.C. Orjiako, also joined in the act of service, proving that the event was not designed for publicity but to inspire collective consciousness and promote a culture of empathy.
Obi also shared details about his personal life to emphasize that service is part of his core values and not a political strategy. He explained that he has never employed a house help, and when guests visit his home, he personally serves them, sweeps, and cleans by himself. According to him, this lifestyle is not intended for the cameras but is a true reflection of his values and belief in humility.
“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,” Obi stated.
He added that during the Jubilee of Hope, he stayed longer than he initially planned because many of the poor attendees personally requested that he serve them, and he felt it was his responsibility to honor their requests.
Finally, Peter Obi called on Nigerians, especially those in leadership positions and the wealthy elite, to embrace the culture of service and work together to build a country where every citizen is treated with dignity and given a sense of belonging.
“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,” Obi concluded.
A New Nigeria is POssible.
-PO
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