Peter Obi Clarifies Viral Photo of Him Serving Food at Imo State Event
Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has responded to the widespread discussion surrounding a viral photo of him serving food at a recent event in Imo State, emphasizing that his actions were a genuine act of service rather than a publicity stunt.
The Viral Moment That Sparked National Conversation
The photograph, which quickly spread across social media platforms, captured Obi personally serving meals to attendees at the Jubilee of Hope – a charity event designed to bridge the gap between Nigeria’s affluent class and its underprivileged citizens.
Addressing the public discourse, Obi took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account to provide context for his actions, framing them as an expression of humility and empathy – qualities he believes are conspicuously absent in contemporary Nigerian leadership.
Obi’s Official Statement on the Incident
“My weekend activity of serving food at a special event has been generating interest, understandably, because leaders in our society have removed the service component from leadership,” Obi wrote in his social media post. “But let me be clear — this wasn’t about me.”
The former Anambra State governor explained that the Jubilee of Hope was specifically organized to remind Nigeria’s privileged class that true leadership requires service, and that the wealthy must be willing to “come down from their high places and serve the poor.”
Unintended Publicity and Political Misinterpretations
Obi revealed that the moment wasn’t meant for public consumption, as the event was private and no media personnel were officially invited. “Unfortunately, some third parties outside my team shared the photos and videos,” he stated, noting that some critics had attempted to politicize what was fundamentally a sincere humanitarian gesture.
The presidential hopeful emphasized that numerous respected figures participated in similar acts of service during the event, including Cardinal John 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 remarked.
Personal Connection with Event Attendees
Obi shared that his extended participation in the food service came at the specific request of many underprivileged attendees who asked that he personally serve them. “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,” he explained.
A Lifestyle of Humility and Service
The former governor offered rare insights into his personal life, disclosing that he maintains no domestic staff, handles his own household chores, and personally serves guests in his home. “Humility is not a campaign strategy; it is a way of life,” he stated.
Concluding his statement with a powerful message about national transformation, Obi wrote: “We cannot talk about building a New Nigeria while ignoring the hungry and the forgotten. Let us work together to create a country where hope is not seasonal and dignity is not a privilege, but a right. A New Nigeria is POssible.”
Public Reaction and National Discourse
The statement has garnered significant praise from Nigerians across various demographics, with many commending Obi for demonstrating leadership qualities rooted in humility and genuine concern for the populace. The incident has sparked broader conversations about the expectations of public service and the relationship between Nigeria’s political class and ordinary citizens.
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… pic.twitter.com/jeE8qoLBCm— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) July 13, 2025
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