Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has explained the motivation behind his widely circulated image showing him serving food to guests at a recent event in Imo State.
The picture, which went viral across social media platforms, sparked conversations among Nigerians, with many praising the gesture while others questioned the intent.
Addressing the development in a statement posted on his X handle, Obi clarified that the act was rooted in his belief that “true leadership is service.”
The event, titled the Jubilee of Hope, was designed, according to Obi, to allow affluent members of society to step out of their comfort zones and serve the underprivileged.
He revealed that he did not invite media coverage or make any public announcement about his participation, stating that the event was meant to be a private service engagement.
“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,” Obi wrote.
He noted that many of the poor attendees personally requested that he serve them, a request he could not turn down.
“At the Jubilee of Hope, I stayed longer because many of the poor attendees requested that I serve them personally. I could not ignore them… Service is not special, it is expected.”
Obi added that other dignitaries also took part in the act of service, including Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Senator Osita Izunaso, and Dr. A.B.C. Orjiako, former chairman of Seplat Plc.
While acknowledging the social media reactions, Obi expressed surprise that such a simple gesture had stirred public debate, stating that society has strayed so far from the culture of servant leadership that acts of humility now seem extraordinary.
“It’s sounding strange that I was seen serving food to people… But humility is not a campaign strategy; it is a way of life,” he said.
He emphasized that his lifestyle even in private reflects simplicity and service, noting that he still carries out domestic chores and personally attends to guests in his home.
Calling on leaders across all spheres to embrace a culture of empathy and equity, Obi urged for a national reorientation toward collective responsibility.
“We cannot speak of building a New Nigeria while ignoring the hungry, the forgotten, and the poor… Let us work together to build a country where hope is not seasonal, and dignity is not a privilege, but a right.