By
Dr. Moses Paul
The lesson continues… We returned from Kigali on Sunday to a late meeting. On Monday, Mr. Peter Obi had back-to-back engagements, and on Tuesday, we left Lagos for the campaign in Benin. However, we missed our flight. Instead of proceeding ahead with the original arrangements—since there was a spot for him—Mr @PeterObi insisted we all travel together, so we opted to go through Asaba. Upon reaching Asaba, although not all vehicles were ready, he chose to wait and travel with us in whatever was available because Barrister Olumide Akpata and the team were already waiting in Benin.
A few minutes into the campaign in Benin, a heavy downpour threatened to disrupt the event. While many would have called it off, PO @PeterObi refused, even when others suggested it. When they tried to shield him with umbrellas, he said, “A leader must not be different from his people, both in public and private. Since the rain is falling on both sides, let it be.” And so, undeterred, he continued campaigning from 12 PM to 6 PM in the pouring rain. Afterward, we left Benin for Onitsha and then headed to Asaba, where he ensured everyone was settled in their hotels.
While we spoke, I asked him why he made sure all accommodations—hotel arrangements, food for everyone—were settled before heading back to Onitsha at about 10PM.
He said, “Dr Mo, listen. There is no rich man in a poor country, and a leader must not live a different life from his people.”
He often says, “It’s not about what others do but about my own responsibilities.”
This was a remarkable display of dedication and humility. It highlights the core of PO’s leadership style—leading by example. He demonstrates that a true leader is willing to share the same experience as the people they serve. His commitment to the cause, and his decision to stand in the rain with his supporters, is a powerful demonstration to servant leadership.
DRMO WROTE THIS PIECE ON X TWITTERÂ
