The presidential candidate of the Labor Party (LP) in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, revealed how he rejected a gift from the N120 million camera during his term as governor of the state of Anambra, insisting that money should be used for the public good.
Obi announced this in a statement on Sunday, while marking his 64th birthday.
He explained that birthdays does not celebrate personally and prefers that the resources meaning for such celebrations be channeled to shocking public projects.
“I remember vividly when I turned 50 during my time as governor. An institution offered to build a house in the town.
“When I requested the cost, they said N120 million. I requested that the funds be used in their place to build classrooms in three institutions in Agulu, Ekwulobia and Abatete. They forced it, and the impact was of great reach,” Obi said.
Peter Obi also shared similar experiences, including the way he redirected the gift of the house N20 million initially reserved for a birthday party in the donation of computers for schools.
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“Another group had budgeted N20 million for a luxurious part. I asked them to consider using funds to buy desktop computers for schools. Its eventual donation of 200 desks was distributed to schools throughout the state, improving learning for many students,” he added.
“In a similar spirit of redirection, another organization, whose intention had originally been celebrating, dedicated himself to donating buses, which we distributed to the needy institutions, including one that went to the legendary Association of Old Rangers.”
Obi expressed concern about the level of suffering in Nigeria and asked leaders to prioritize public welfare.
“I picked up especially for our beloved country, Nigeria, so that God can touch the hearts of our leaders and awaken in them the understanding that public funds are destined for the public good.
“That we all find strength and grace to continue fighting for a more just, compassionate and equitable society,” he said.
Nigerian tribe