The Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, practically stole the show in Cote D’Ivoire on Friday, when he stormed the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan, to watch the Super Eagles trounce Angola in the group of eight match.
Apart from the excitement of winning the testy encounter, which catapulted Nigeria into the semi-finals to face either Cape Verde or South Africa, Nigerians at the stadium celebrated the appearance of the former governor of Anambra State, who donned the Super Eagles jersey.
More excitement was that – unlike other Nigerian dignitaries, including members of the National Assembly – who were reported to have travelled to watch and cheer Nigeria at the ongoing 2023 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup in Cote d’Ivoire, who either hid in the Very Important Persons (VIP) stands or not visible at all, Obi chose to join the Nigerian Supporters Club at the popular stand.
Aside hailing the Super Eagles players, Obi, who was at the stadium with Valentine Ozigbo, a politician and former Managing Director of Transcorp Hotels, Abuja, took the centre stage of attention.
A chieftain of the LP, who had earlier disclosed Obi’s trip in a post on his official Facebook page, wrote: “Just arrived in Côte d’Ivoire with HE @PeterObi to support our soaring Super Eagles to victory in the Quarterfinals of AFCON 2023. Quite a pleasant lunch at Sofitel Abidjan.
“Let’s rally behind our team, knowing their strength and unity on the field mirror our spirit and passion as a nation. Together, we soar higher! #SuperEagles #AFCON2023.”
Obi, who was said to have rejected any VIP treatment, was later seen at the popular stand with other supporters, standing throughout the game while cheering the Super Eagles to victory, and gyrating to the music of the Supporters Club. Not a few Nigerians were pleasantly surprised to see him at the popular stand milling around him in admiration and taking photographs.
One Dr. Moses Paul wrote: “Witnessing the humility of Mr. Peter Obi today was truly inspiring. As we bid farewell, I couldn’t help but admire his selflessness and down-to-earth nature.
“Despite being offered a first-class ticket, he chose to travel to the host nation of AFCON, Cote d’Ivoire, like any ordinary person.
“The memory of our time at the New Africa Foundation convention in Accra, Ghana, still lingers in my mind. It was there that I witnessed Mr. Peter Obi’s unwavering commitment to frugality and resourcefulness.
“In a setting where extravagant displays and lavish expenses are the norm, he stood out by declining all the unnecessary paraphernalia associated with international meetings. His insistence on saving money wherever possible struck a chord within me, as it is a testament to his consistent values and principles.
“Mr. Peter Obi’s unwavering dedication to fiscal responsibility serves as a powerful reminder that true leadership is not about indulging in extravagance, but rather about making wise and prudent choices for the greater good.
“In Cote d’Ivoire, amidst the presence of numerous esteemed dignitaries, Mr. Peter Obi chose to stand among the supporters. His genuine connection with the people and his willingness to be part of the crowd exemplify his humility and dedication to serving others, surprising and uplifting the Super Eagles and spectators alike with a powerful presence that radiated hope and joy throughout the stadium.
“He truly embodies the essence of leadership, reminding us that greatness lies not in titles or privileges, but in the genuine care and compassion we show towards our fellow human being.”