Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has announced that he will not be celebrating his 62nd birthday due to the current deplorable state of Nigeria.
In a statement shared on Twitter, Obi appealed to his friends, family members, and well-wishers to redirect any desire to celebrate him towards helping those in need. He emphasized that there is an urgent need to address the widespread insecurity, violence, and bloodshed plaguing the nation. Obi expressed his desire to celebrate in a Nigeria that works for all citizens and one that Nigerians can be proud of, believing that such a celebration would benefit the entire nation.
He stated, "Wednesday, July 19, 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, given the current deplorable state of the nation.
"However, some friends, members of the Labour Party, the OBIdient Family, and supporters have expressed their desire to join me in celebrating that day and even present some gifts.
"I humbly and respectfully appeal to all those who wish to celebrate me with any kind of gifts to instead look around them and extend such gifts to those in need, especially during these challenging times.
"I urge them to visit hospitals, orphanages, homes for the aged, and facilities supporting people with disabilities, and offer them generous gifts. They can also visit schools in remote areas and provide them with essential amenities they require.
"Those who wish to do more can visit various internally displaced persons (IDP) camps across the country. I intend to do the same. Alongside sharing my time and resources with the less fortunate around me, I plan to raise funds for schools, hospitals, and more.
"I have repeatedly emphasized that sacrifices for a better Nigeria must begin with us, the leaders and the privileged. The state of our nation demands reflection and contemplation. Insecurity, violence, and bloodshed have become far too prevalent."