Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has stated that his primary motivation for seeking public office is to serve the people and improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians. Obi made the remarks in a video shared by Viable TV on Monday, March 16, 2026, where he spoke about leadership, personal values, and public service.
During the interaction, Obi reflected on the responsibility of leadership and attributed any opportunity to serve to divine grace. “That’s why if I have an opportunity to serve, I serve the people and not steal their money, because it’s by his grace. It wasn’t by my power. The reason why people are here and looking at me, it’s by his grace. If he takes it away, he won’t be here. You know, thank you,” he said.
When asked what the first step would be if he were elected president, Obi responded by emphasizing gratitude and care for citizens. “Thank God. And care for the people. Well, it’s by his grace,” he replied.
The conversation also addressed whether he would be willing to work with others in government. “Would you be willing to work with any other person if you are not elected president?” the interviewer asked.
Responding, Obi said he does not view leadership as a personal ambition but rather as a responsibility to serve if the opportunity arises. “No, that won’t come. But I’m not looking for a job. I’m a very contented person, you know. I just want to serve the people,” he said.
He further spoke about the values that guide his approach to leadership, including compassion and support for disadvantaged communities. “I want to show compassion, I want to love them. I want to help the poor people out of poverty. My joy is in helping people, in living with people. You know, that’s it,” Obi stated.
The former governor also reflected on his time in office, noting that some individuals present during the discussion were familiar with his tenure. “Those who were here when I was governor, any of you were there when I was governor? This my friend, I can tell you. When I was governor, he’s a journalist,” he said.
According to Obi, personal relationships remained unchanged during his time in office. “He was my friend. And he remained my friend. He can come to my house,” he added.
He concluded by reiterating his belief that leadership positions are determined by divine will. “Because I’m governor because God wanted me to be governor. Just like he wanted other people to live like this. So that’s why, like I said, I’m happy living in my mother. And my brothers and everybody’s happy,” Obi said.