The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has revealed how he turned down a N120 million house gift during his tenure as governor of Anambra State, insisting the money should instead be used for public good.

Obi made this known in a statement on Sunday, while to marking his 64th birthday.

He explained that he does not personally celebrate birthdays and prefers that any resources meant for such celebrations be channeled into impactful public projects.

“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 N120 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 said.

Peter Obi further shared similar experiences, including how he redirected N20 million house gift initially set aside for a birthday party into the donation of computers for schools.

“Another group had budgeted N20 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,” he 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.”

Obi expressed concern over the level of suffering across Nigeria and called on leaders to prioritise public welfare.

“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. (Nigerian Tribune)