Peter Obi has come under heavy criticism following a public claim that he does not own a house in Abuja and has no intention of acquiring one.
The former Anambra State governor and 2023 presidential candidate made the statement in a video that has since circulated widely on social media.
In the video clip monitored by POLITICS NIGERIA, Obi argued that owning multiple properties only increases personal stress, insisting that he sees no need to maintain a residence in the nation’s capital.
The comment has triggered sharp reactions, especially as Obi is widely known as a wealthy businessman and is once again being linked to the 2027 presidential race. Critics say the timing of the statement has raised questions about its motive and sincerity.
Many Nigerians have described the remark as a calculated political move ahead of the next general election. They argue that such statements are designed to project humility and simplicity rather than reflect reality.
Some commentators accused Obi of downplaying his wealth to appeal to voters. They insist that denying property ownership in Abuja does not align with his public image as a billionaire investor with extensive business interests.
One critic argued that Obi was insulting the intelligence of Nigerians by making what they described as an unrealistic claim. Another said wealth should not be hidden or denied, adding that financial success does not automatically make someone unfit for leadership.
Others went further, alleging that while Obi may not personally hold property in his own name, assets linked to him exist under corporate structures.
According to this view, such arrangements allow him to make technically correct statements while still benefiting from high-value properties.
There were also claims that Obi owns property outside Nigeria, including in the United Kingdom. These comments questioned the real message behind his statement and accused some of his supporters of blindly defending him.
However, Obi’s supporters have pushed back against the criticism. They argue that the former governor was simply expressing a personal philosophy about wealth and responsibility. Some insist that his statement should not be twisted into a political controversy.
The debate has continued to grow online, with supporters and critics trading arguments over honesty, perception, and political messaging.
For many observers, the issue goes beyond property ownership and touches on trust and transparency in public life.