Peter Obi Speaks Out: Serving Food Is Service, Not Politics

Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has broken his silence over a viral video that captured him serving food at a public event, clarifying that the gesture was rooted in humility and service, not political showmanship.

Obi, a former Anambra State Governor, explained in a personally signed statement on Sunday that the event — a Jubilee of Hope outreach in Imo State — was a private charity-driven affair designed to symbolize empathy and social equity. He emphasized that leadership must go beyond power to demonstrate practical service to the people.

“It’s sounding strange that I was seen serving food to people. Let me be clear, that event was not about me,” Obi wrote. “It was to remind us that true leadership is service, and that those who have must never forget those who do not.”

He stated that he did not publicize his participation in the event, and the photos and videos circulating online were shared by third parties. According to him, many dignitaries also participated, including Cardinal Onaiyekan, Senator Osita Izunaso, and former Seplat Plc Chairman Dr. A.B.C. Orjiako.

Obi expressed disappointment over attempts by critics to politicize the gesture, particularly as speculation mounts ahead of the 2027 general elections. He clarified that the act was not intended to score political points but was consistent with his personal values.

“Even now, in private life, I do not have a house help. When guests visit my home, I serve them myself. I live simply… humility is not a campaign strategy; it is a way of life,” he stated.

The former governor said he remained at the event longer than expected because many poor attendees requested that he serve them personally — a gesture he couldn’t refuse. “Service is not special, it is expected,” he added.

Obi emphasized the need for a cultural shift in Nigerian leadership, urging public office holders, business elites, and citizens to adopt a lifestyle of service to bridge the nation’s socio-economic gaps.

“We cannot speak of building a New Nigeria while ignoring the hungry, the forgotten, and the poor,” he said. “Let us work together to build a country where hope is not seasonal, and dignity is not a privilege, but a right.”