Ahead of his 62nd birthday anniversary on Wednesday July 19, Mr. Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has asked his supporters and all Nigerians planning to celebrate him with gifts to direct such gifts to the needy.
Obi, in a statement on Monday said while he is grateful to God for His infinite mercies, he still maintain his decision of over 20 years, that he will not celebrate his birthdays in today’s Nigeria, with the current deplorable state of the nation.
He, therefore, directed his friends, members of the Labour Party (LP), and OBIdient family and supporters who had asked how they can join him in celebrating that day, and even present some gifts, to extend such gifts to the people in need, especially in these difficult times.
Obi urged such persons to visit hospitals, orphanages, and homes for the aged and people with disabilities, and offer them the generous gifts, adding, “They can also visit schools of basic studies in remote areas and support them with the basic amenities they need.”
The former Anambra governor who said he intends to do the same thing, in commemorating his birthday, Wednesday, said Nigerians who wish to do more can visit various Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps in different parts of the country.
“Aside from sharing my time and resources with the less fortunate people around me, I plan to raise money for schools, hospitals. I have already said that the sacrifices for a better Nigeria must now start from us, the leaders and the well-placed. The state of our nation must give us cause to pause and ponder. There is far too much insecurity, violence, and bloodshed.
“This month alone over 200 lives have been lost to sustained violent attacks in Mangu LGA in Plateau State. Similarly, in Benue State, over 100 lives have been lost in recent times, the latest being 27 persons killed in Adogo Ugbaam, Akpuuna, and Diom communities in Ukum LGA.
“There are also many other cases of kidnappings and killings in different parts of the country. I want to celebrate in a New Nigeria where the lives and properties of citizens will be secure. I want to celebrate in a productive Nigeria that can create opportunities for our youths.
“I want to celebrate in a Nigeria that works for all and which Nigerians can be proud of. This, and not my birthday, is the true celebration that will be beneficial to all Nigerians.
“As Nigerians, we must always expand our imagination of the Possible, believing as we do that a New Nigeria is POssible,” the Labour Party (LP) Presidential Candidate concluded in a series of tweets on his personal handle, @PeterObi, on Monday.
