Onyekachi Eze 
Former candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 presidential election Mr Peter Obi, said his 63rd birthday on July 19, will be marked with personal reflection and thanksgiving to God for granting him life, good health and opportunity to contribute to the betterment of humanity.
Obi in a statement on his X handle, noted the numerous well-wishers, both locally and internationally, who have already been sending birthday wishes and organising events in his honour, but said that resources for such events should be channelled to uplift the poor and the needy.
He said he opted for a solemn celebration especially now that “the poor and the needy are swelling in our midst.”
Obi appealed to his “well-wishers and supporters, particularly in Nigeria and Africa, to use this occasion to fervently pray for our nation and respective countries.
“Let us present ourselves, as political leaders, to God, so that He may touch our hearts to make sacrifices, utilise public resources for the greater good, and prioritise the needs of the poor and marginalised. Let us also provide better opportunities for our youth to thrive.
“To those organising events and spending funds in celebration of my birthday, I kindly request that you redirect those resources towards supporting the needy, particularly those in hospitals and schools.
“Your contributions can help pay medical bills and school fees for the less privileged.”
The Labour Party national leader further appealed that all gifts intended for his birthday should be donated to care homes, schools, and hospitals, which, he said, would greatly benefit from their generosity.
“I have therefore personally, redirected the resources I would have used for celebrations towards supporting critical areas such as health, education, and poverty alleviation.
“I firmly believe that through these sacrifices, God Almighty will grant your heartfelt wishes for me and answer our prayers,” he added.
Obi expressed gratitude for their kind thoughts and prayers and urged them to remain faithful to Nigeria and their respective nations.
