Politics

Why I Turned Down a ₦120 Million Mansion – Peter Obi Speaks Out

Published by Akinwale Fakinlede on July 21st, 2025.

The offer, according to Obi, was presented to him towards the end of his time in office — a “retirement gift” of sorts, sponsored by the state government. The mansion, fully furnished and located in a prime area of the state capital, was intended to be a parting gesture for his years of service. But for Obi, accepting such a gift would have contradicted everything he stood for.

“I told them, I didn’t serve the people to enrich myself. I came to lead by example, not to take what doesn’t belong to me,” Obi said.

According to him, the ₦120 million earmarked for the property could have been redirected toward sectors like education or healthcare—areas where the state still faced significant challenges at the time. His refusal was not about making headlines, he explained, but about setting a precedent for what public service should truly represent.

“How do I go home with a mansion while schools in my state still have leaking roofs? It just didn’t sit right with me.”

This isn’t the first time Peter Obi has made headlines for shunning luxury. As governor, he was known for flying economy class, carrying his own luggage, and drastically reducing government expenses. These decisions often drew both admiration and criticism, but they built his reputation as a man who walks his talk.

Political analysts see this latest revelation as another reminder of Obi’s commitment to transparency and fiscal discipline. At a time when public trust in leadership remains fragile, such acts—though rare—go a long way in rebuilding confidence in governance.

Many Nigerians on social media have praised Obi for his refusal, calling it “a breath of fresh air” in a country where political figures are often seen as out of touch with the realities of the people they serve.

“It’s not about the mansion,” Obi said during the interview. “It’s about the message. Leadership should be about service, not self-enrichment.”

As 2027 looms and the political chessboard begins to shift once again, stories like this will likely play a key role in shaping public perception and discourse. Whether one agrees with his politics or not, Peter Obi’s stand on integrity continues to challenge the status quo — and perhaps, inspire a new generatio

n of leaders.