According to a recent report by Channels Television, comments made by former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi during an interview have stirred controversy online, as Nigerians question the consistency of his claims regarding his modest lifestyle while in office.
In the interview, Obi emphasized his preference for simplicity, stating, “I don’t need a jet… For my first four years as governor, I used 406,” referencing the Peugeot 406—a vehicle known for its affordability and practicality. His remarks were intended to reinforce his long-standing image as a frugal public servant focused on governance rather than personal luxury.
However, the comment has since been met with skepticism and sarcasm on social media. One of the most vocal critics, Lere Olayinka, an aide to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, took to X (formerly Twitter) on July 6, 2025, to challenge Obi’s narrative. Olayinka wrote, “Peugeot 406 in 2007… And later changed to Land Cruiser in his second tenure. So why did he not use Keke?”—a jab implying that Obi’s claims of frugality may be exaggerated or misleading.
Obi governed Anambra State from 2006 to 2014, with a significant moment in 2007 when he was reinstated after an impeachment. According to Punch, this period aligns with the time he claimed to use the Peugeot 406.
While Obi maintained in the interview that his priority was serving the public over indulging in luxury, critics argue that such statements should be matched with full transparency. The discussion has reignited broader conversations about political accountability, optics, and the expectations Nigerians place on leaders regarding humility and integrity in public service.
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