Peter Obi says his simple lifestyle is not strategy but genuine humility rooted in personal values.
He insists serving guests and doing chores reflect his beliefs, not an attempt to gain votes.
Labour Party leader and former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, says his modest lifestyle and personal habits are not a political act but part of his nature.
Obi made this known in a statement on Sunday, where he explained that he still carries out his daily chores, including cleaning and serving guests, without domestic help. “As governor, I always served others whenever we had events. Even now, in private life, I do not have a househelp,” he said. “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.”
His comments follow public reactions to a viral video showing him serving food at a recent gathering. Addressing the buzz, Obi clarified that the event was part of a private outreach program called the Jubilee of Hope, aimed at encouraging influential individuals to serve those in need.
“My weekend activity of serving food at a special event has been generating interest… It’s sounding strange that I was seen serving food to people. Let me be clear, that event was not about me… True leadership is service, and those who have must never forget those who do not.”
He also mentioned that the event included notable figures such as Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Senator Osita Izunaso, and Dr. A.B.C. Orjiako, all of whom participated without seeking recognition.
Obi clarified that neither he nor his team publicized the event. “When I attended the Jubilee of Hope in Imo State, it was a private service event… Unfortunately, some third parties, completely outside of my team, shared photos and videos.”
He concluded by saying the program was about promoting compassion and responsibility in society. “The Jubilee of Hope is designed for the rich to come down from their high places, even if just for a moment, and serve the poor not as a show, but as a symbol of the society we must build. A society anchored on empathy, equity, and responsibility.”
