Former Labour Party presidential candidate and ex-governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has revealed why he never commissioned any projects during his eight-year tenure in office, stating that it was unnecessary and self-serving.
Speaking in a now-viral video, Obi addressed the recent controversy surrounding the renaming of Charly Boy Bus Stop in Lagos to “Olamide Baddo Bus Stop” by the Bariga Local Council Development Area (LCDA). While some viewed the change as culturally significant, Obi used the moment to reflect on his own values while in office.
“As governor, I refused to let streets, buildings or anything be named after me,” Obi said. “I even built a facility in a hospital, and the proprietor suggested it be named after me or my mother. I declined.”
Obi said his focus was always on delivering public service without fanfare or personal branding.
“I didn’t even commission anything. People say I didn’t do much publicity, but I simply believed that since everything was done with public funds, it wasn’t my place to attach my name to them.”
Obi emphasized that governance should not be about self-glorification or showmanship, adding that even if he becomes president, no facility under his leadership would bear his name.
“All I want is for the facility to function. To me, it is totally irrelevant when you have millions of people who don’t know where their next meal will come from,” he stated.
Obi’s comments have reignited discussions about humility in public service and the trend of politicians branding state-funded projects with their names.
