Aide to former Governor Peter Obi has clarified a trending photo of his principal serving food at an event.
According to the aide, Val Obienyem, the photo was taken during the Jubilee of Hope, an event symbolizing a reversal of roles where the privileged serve the poor.
The aide explained that Obi’s actions were rooted in his deeply held belief in humility and service, and not a political performance. “Mr. Peter Obi was known to personally serve food to his guests as part of a deeply held belief in humility and service,” the aide stated.
The photo was reported out of context, sparking controversy. However, Obienyem noted that other highly placed Nigerians, such as Senator Chijinkem Ugwuanyi, also served food during the event.
The aide emphasized that Obi’s humility is a way of life, built on principles of equity and justice.
Peter Obi’s Aide Clarify Trending Picture of His Principal Serving Food in An Event.
Read Full Text of Val Obienyem’s Clarification
Why Obi Served Food
“Even as Governor, Mr. Peter Obi was known to personally serve food to his guests as part of a deeply held belief in humility and service. Till this day, when visitors come to his home, it is not uncommon to see him offering them food himself. It is a habit formed by principle.
“The photograph now in circulation, showing him serving food at an event, was not a political performance. It was taken during the Jubilee of Hope – part of the Year of Unity and Hope proclaimed by Pope Francis. The event symbolises a reversal of roles: a moment when the privileged serve the poor.
“What Obi did was not for show. It was a quiet, sincere act of humanity – a visible expression of a life built on equity and justice.
“The Jubilee invites those in authority to step down – even if briefly – from their lofty stations, to walk among the lowly and serve. But for men like Peter Obi, such humility is not seasonal. It is a way of life.
“Other highly placed Nigerians, such as Senator Chijinkem Ugwuanyi, also served food that day. The furore caused by the gesture arose from it being reported out of context”.
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