“I Served Because the Poor Asked Me To” — Peter Obi Explains Viral Food-Serving Moment in Imo State

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According to a NewsVista reporter, former presidential candidate Peter Obi has broken his silence after a viral video showed him personally serving food at a recent event in Imo State.

The video, which circulated widely on social media, captured Obi carrying trays and handing out plates of food to guests during the “Jubilee of Hope” event hosted by the Catholic Church. His gesture sparked mixed reactions — with some critics calling it a political stunt, while his supporters hailed it as an act of humility.

But Obi has now addressed the issue directly.

In a statement shared via his verified X (formerly Twitter) account on Sunday, July 13, the former Anambra governor explained that the act was rooted in sincere service, not strategy.

“At the event, the rich were expected to serve the poor. Many of the less privileged attendees asked that I serve them personally — and I stayed back to do just that,” Obi said.

He further clarified that he wasn’t the only prominent figure serving food that day.

“Cardinal Onaiyekan, Senator Osita Izunaso, Dr. A.B.C. Orjiako, and others also participated quietly and sincerely,” he added. “It wasn’t about cameras; it was about conscience.”

Obi revealed that humility is not new to him — even in private life.

“I don’t have a house help. I serve my guests myself. I sweep. I clean. This isn’t campaign behavior. It’s who I am,” he stated.

He also made it clear that he never posted the video, nor did he invite the media. According to him, “third parties outside my team shared it,” which then gave room for “naysayers and paid agents” to twist the moment.

Obi concluded his message with a call to action:

“If we’re serious about building a new Nigeria, we must start by serving the hungry, the poor, and the forgotten — not just in words, but in action.”