By Nwosa Hamilton
The 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has clarified that his decision to serve food at a recent public event was a genuine display of humility, not a calculated political maneuver.
The viral video of Obi dishing out meals had sparked debates, with some accusing him of leveraging the gesture for political gain.
Obi, however, in a statement issued on his official X handle, insisted that his actions reflect a lifelong commitment to simplicity and service, not a campaign strategy.
He said: “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.
“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 wrote.
“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.”
It would be recalled that many years ago, former United States President, Barack Obama was sighted at a public restaurant volunteering to help those who needed to be served food.
In a manner reminiscent of that period, Obi who also offered to serve guests, said the action was borne out of genuine desire to serve the people and not for political gains.
