Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has explained why he was seen serving food to guests at a recent event in Imo State — an image that quickly went viral and sparked debates across social media.
Obi clarified that his action was not staged for publicity, but rather inspired by genuine requests from many underprivileged attendees who asked him to personally serve them meals.
“At the Jubilee of Hope in Imo State, I stayed longer because many of the poor attendees requested that I serve them personally. I could not ignore them,” Obi shared in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
True Leadership Is Service, Not Show
The former Anambra State governor explained that the Jubilee of Hope event was organized to encourage wealthy and influential members of society to step away from their privileged positions and directly serve the poor — not as a spectacle, but as a symbolic gesture of humility, empathy, and responsibility.
“The purpose is straightforward: to remind us all that true leadership is service, and that those who have must never forget those who do not,” Obi emphasized.
Obi expressed surprise at the intense attention the photo received, noting that leaders have removed the “service” element from leadership, making such acts appear unusual today.
“Service is not special; it is expected,” he added.
Not a Political Strategy
Obi stressed that his presence at the event was personal and not intended for political gain.
“When I attended the Jubilee of Hope, it was a private service event. I did not post about it, nor did I invite media coverage. Unfortunately, some third parties outside my team shared photos and videos.”
He highlighted that other distinguished Nigerians also joined in serving food, including Cardinal Onaiyekan, Senator Osita Izunaso, and Dr. A.B.C. Orjiako, former Chairman of Seplat Plc.
“It wasn’t about the cameras; it was about conscience,” Obi wrote.
A Lifelong Commitment to Humility
Reflecting on his lifestyle, Obi explained that acts of service are part of his daily life, not a political strategy.
“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.”
Building a Culture of Compassion
In his closing remarks, Obi urged Nigerians to build a culture where service to others is the norm — not an exception.
“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.”
He called on public office holders, business leaders, and everyday citizens to unite in lifting others, insisting that a “New Nigeria is POssible.”
