I Don’t Need It!’ – Peter Obi Reveals Why He Rejected ₦120 Million House Gift

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, has shared how he once turned down an offer to build him a ₦120 million house while serving as Governor of Anambra State.

In a post shared via his official social media account on Sunday, Obi recounted that the offer was made on the occasion of his 50th birthday. Rather than accept the expensive gift, he requested that the funds be redirected toward building classrooms in three institutions located in Agulu, Ekwulobia, and Abatete. The donors agreed and carried out the project as requested.

The former governor made the revelation while expressing gratitude to those celebrating his 64th birthday on Saturday, July 19. He emphasized that although he does not personally celebrate birthdays, he deeply values the goodwill shown to him and prefers that resources meant for celebrations be channeled toward initiatives that uplift communities.

“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,” Obi stated.

He also recounted a similar incident where a group intended to spend ₦20 million on a birthday celebration in his honour. Obi declined the gesture and advised them to use the funds to support education. The group complied by purchasing 200 desktop computers for schools across the state.

Obi noted that redirecting personal gifts and celebrations to public service projects has always been his principle. For his 64th birthday, he maintained the same stance, urging well-wishers to support vulnerable populations and underfunded institutions instead of organizing personal celebrations.

“In the same spirit, an organisation that intended to celebrate me ended up donating buses to institutions in need, including the legendary Old Rangers Association,” he added.

He concluded by highlighting the need for compassion and social responsibility in a country plagued by widespread poverty and hardship.

“The scale of suffering and deprivation among our people makes the idea of personal merriment difficult to contemplate. This is why I have again asked those who wish to celebrate me to channel their goodwill to support the poor or struggling institutions in health and education.

May we all find strength and grace to keep striving for a more just, compassionate, and equitable society,” Obi stated.