Former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi has explained his decision to serve food to guests at a special event in Owerri, Imo State, is generating controversy because Nigerian leaders have removed the service component in leadership.
Obi said that because of this, “it is 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.”
He added: “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.
“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 also said that he 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.”
He, however, said that he is 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,” he said.
He further explained that he stayed longer at the event “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.”
He, therefore, appealed that
we should “work together to build a country where hope is not seasonal, and dignity is not a privilege, but a right.”
