I will not celebrate my birthday in today’s Nigeria – Peter Obi tells those who want to celebrate him to share their generosity with those in need

Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) member, firmly stated that he will not entertain the requests of his friends, party members, and supporters to celebrate his birthday with gifts. Instead, he urged those who might want to celebrate him to consider sharing their generosity with those in need.

In a statement released on his verified Twitter account, the former Governor of Anambra State emphasized that everyone, including leaders and well-placed individuals, should begin making sacrifices for a better Nigeria. He pointed out that the current state of the nation calls for deep reflection.

Peter Obi expressed his concern about the prevailing insecurity, violence, and bloodshed in the country. He expressed his desire to celebrate in a Nigeria that works for the benefit of all citizens and one that every Nigerian can be proud of. To him, this true celebration will be the one that brings prosperity to all Nigerians.

He wrote, ”Wednesday, 19th July 2023, marks my 62nd birthday. While I remain immensely grateful to God for His infinite mercies, I still maintain my decision of over 20 years that I will not celebrate my birthdays in today’s Nigeria, with the current deplorable state of the nation.

”However, some friends, members of the Labour Party, and the OBIdient Family and supporters have asked how they can join me in celebrating that day and even present some gifts.

”Let me humbly and respectfully appeal to all those who desire to celebrate me with any kind of gifts to look around them and extend such gifts to the people in need, especially in these difficult times.

”I urge them to visit hospitals, orphanages, and homes for the aged and people with disabilities and offer them generous gifts. They can also visit schools of basic studies in remote areas and support them with the basic amenities they need.

”Those who wish to do more can visit various IDP camps in different parts of the country. I intend to do the same thing. Aside from sharing my time and resources with the less fortunate people around me, I plan to raise money for schools, hospitals, etc.

”I have already said that the sacrifices for a better Nigeria must now start from us, the leaders and the well-placed. The state of our nation must give us cause to pause and ponder. There is far too much insecurity, violence, and bloodshed.”