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WHY I REJECTED N120M HOUSE GIFT – PETER OBI
The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has revealed how he turned down an offer of a multimillion-naira house, requesting that the funds be used for the public good.
In a statement marking his 64th birthday, Obi said he turned down the N120 million house gift during his 50th birthday when he was governor of Anambra state.
While lamenting the scale of suffering and deprivation confronting Nigerians, he called for the redirection of resources to support the country’s health and educational institutions.
Obi noted that while he does not personally celebrate birthdays, he prefers that resources meant for him be redirected to projects that benefit the public.
“I recall vividly when I turned 50 during my time as governor. One institution offered to build me a house in the village. When I asked for the cost, they said ₦120 million. I requested that the funds be used instead to build classrooms in three institutions across Agulu, Ekwulobia and Abatete. They obliged—and the impact was far-reaching.
“Another group had budgeted ₦20 million for a lavish party. I graciously asked them to consider using the funds to purchase desktop computers for schools. Their eventual donation of 200 desktops was distributed to schools across the state, enhancing learning for many students.
“In a similar spirit of redirection, another organisation—whose intention had originally been to celebrate me—ended up donating buses, which we distributed to institutions in need, including one that went to the legendary Old Rangers Association.”
He stressed the need to strive for a more just, compassionate, and equitable society.
“I especially prayed for our beloved country, Nigeria, that God may touch the hearts of our leaders, and awaken in them the realisation that public funds are meant for the public good. May we all find strength and grace to keep striving for a more just, compassionate, and equitable society,” he said.
