Peter Obi Rejected ₦120 Million House Gift as Anambra Governor, Directs Funds Toward Schools and Public Good

 

Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party’s presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has shared personal stories of selflessness from his time in office, reaffirming his longstanding commitment to public welfare and transparency in governance.

As part of a heartfelt statement released on Sunday to mark his 64th birthday, Obi recounted how he declined a luxury house gift worth ₦120 million while serving as governor. The proposal, which was made during his 50th birthday, was rejected by the former governor, who instead asked that the funds be redirected to projects that would benefit the people.

The governor revealed that the institution behind the offer was willing to construct a grand home in his village as a birthday gesture. Upon learning the cost involved, he politely declined and suggested an alternative use for the money. “I requested that the funds be used instead to build classrooms in three institutions across Agulu, Ekwulobia, and Abatete,” Obi stated. “They obliged, and the impact was far-reaching.”

This revelation comes at a time when many Nigerians are grappling with deepening economic hardship. Obi seized the occasion of his birthday not to celebrate himself, but to reignite conversations about responsible leadership and prioritizing the welfare of citizens over personal enrichment.

Throughout his public career, Obi has cultivated a reputation for modest living and ethical leadership. His latest statement builds on that legacy, offering both inspiration and a challenge to those in positions of authority.

Further reflecting on his tenure as governor, Obi narrated another incident involving a planned birthday celebration worth ₦20 million. Instead of accepting the proposal for a lavish party, he appealed to the organizers to put the money to better use. He suggested the purchase of desktop computers for schools in the state. His request was honored, resulting in the donation of 200 desktop computers that were distributed to various educational institutions, boosting access to digital learning tools for students.

Similar stories of selfless redirection were shared. One involved an organization that initially intended to celebrate Obi with a grand event but, following his advice, instead donated vehicles to institutions in need. One of the buses was given to the legendary Old Rangers Association, a gesture that was warmly received and appreciated.

These anecdotes were not shared in the spirit of self-praise, Obi clarified, but rather as examples of how leaders can positively influence their environment by thinking beyond personal gain.

He used the opportunity to address the current state of the nation, urging leaders at all levels to take a more compassionate and just approach to governance. According to Obi, Nigeria is at a critical juncture, where millions of citizens are struggling with the basic necessities of life, such as access to quality education, healthcare, and security.

"Our beloved country is in desperate need of healing and redirection," Obi said. "We must awaken the consciousness of our leaders, reminding them that public funds are meant for public good, not for personal luxury."

Instead of celebrating his birthday with the typical fanfare and extravagance, Obi opted for solemn reflection and prayer. His thoughts, he said, were with the poor, the sick, and the struggling families across the country. He prayed for a shift in Nigeria’s political landscape, one that places people above politics and humanity above self-interest.

Obi’s message is particularly striking in a political environment often characterized by excess and detachment from grassroots realities. His call for empathy, equity, and justice adds to ongoing conversations around leadership ethics in Nigeria.

Through his personal examples, Obi challenged not just current political leaders but also citizens to consider the wider impact of their actions. He emphasized that lasting change in society comes from intentional choices, grounded in integrity and service to others.

At a time when many Nigerians are seeking trustworthy leadership, Peter Obi’s story stands as a reminder that humility and purposeful governance are not only possible, but necessary for national renewal.