Former Governor Peter Obi has decried personal aggrandisement and misuse of public funds by Nigerian leaders. Illustrating his commitment to the common good, the former presidential candidate 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 on Sunday marking his 64th birthday, Mr Obi lamented the scale of suffering and deprivation confronting Nigerians, urging the redirection of resources to support the country’s health and educational institutions.

“As I turned 64 years old yesterday, I must confess that the current state of our nation makes the idea of personal merriment even more difficult to contemplate,” Mr Obi said. “The scale of suffering and deprivation among our people weighs heavily on the conscience. This is why I have once again requested that all those who wish to celebrate me should instead channel their resources towards helping the poor or supporting our struggling health and educational institutions.”

While stating he did not personally celebrate birthdays, the former Anambra governor recalled how he rejected offers for elaborate celebrations in the past, redirecting resources to support the vulnerable and institutions.

“One institution generously offered to build a house for me in the village. When I asked for the estimated cost, they said it would be ₦120 million. I humbly requested that the funds be redirected to build classrooms in three educational institutions at 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,” Mr Obi stated.

The former governor added, “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.”

Mr Obi 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.