In a heartwarming display of humility and unity, Peter Obi, the former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, joined a group of Almajiris to break their Ramadan fast on Saturday evening. The event, which took place in a local community in northern Nigeria, has sparked widespread reactions across the country.
Obi, known for his grassroots approach to leadership, sat with the Almajiris – young boys typically engaged in Quranic studies and often from underprivileged backgrounds – sharing a modest meal of dates, porridge, and bread. Eyewitnesses described the scene as a powerful moment of connection, with Obi engaging the children in conversations about their dreams and aspirations.
Speaking briefly after the meal, Obi emphasized the importance of compassion and support for the less privileged, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. “These children are the future of Nigeria. We must invest in them, not just with words but with actions that show we care,” he said. “Breaking bread with them is a reminder that leadership is about service, not privilege.”
The gesture comes at a time when Nigeria grapples with rising poverty and insecurity, issues Obi has consistently highlighted in his public engagements. His decision to dine with the Almajiris has been praised by many as a symbolic act of solidarity, though some critics argue it is a calculated move to maintain political relevance ahead of future elections.
Malam Ibrahim Sani, a local cleric who witnessed the event, commended Obi’s humility. “He didn’t come with cameras or a big entourage. He sat on the mat with the children and ate what they ate. It’s not something we see every day from people of his stature,” Sani told our correspondent.
Social media platforms have since been abuzz with photos and videos of the encounter, with many Nigerians lauding Obi’s down-to-earth demeanor. “This is the kind of leader we need – someone who understands the people,” wrote
@AminuKano2 on X. Others, however, questioned the timing, with
@NaijaTruths suggesting it was “another political stunt.”
Obi’s team has dismissed such criticisms, insisting that the visit was spontaneous and not orchestrated for publicity. “His Excellency has always been committed to the welfare of the downtrodden. This is who he is,” a statement from his media office read.
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