Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has sparked widespread discussion on social media after sharing a personal anecdote during a recent X Spaces session, where he recounted cleaning a toilet on a British Airways flight to illustrate his approach to leadership and problem-solving.
When pressed by participants on his specific plans to tackle Nigeria’s persistent insecurity challenges if elected president in 2027, Obi pivoted to the story, suggesting it demonstrated his hands-on attitude and humility.
“I singlehandedly cleaned [a] British Airway Toilet,” Obi reportedly said, linking the act to why Nigerians should trust him on major national issues like insecurity. He described encountering a dirty lavatory mid-flight during his time as governor, noting that another passenger – whom he described as an elderly person working under then-Lagos Governor Babatunde Fashola – was unable to use it due to its condition.
Obi explained that he took it upon himself to clean the facility, reasoning that he might need to use it next. He added that the passenger later returned and used the now-clean toilet after learning of his efforts.
The remark quickly went viral on X (formerly Twitter), with users sharing clips and reacting strongly. Critics labeled the response evasive, arguing it failed to address the direct question on security strategies. One user posted: “They asked Peter Obi what he’ll do concerning insecurity in Nigeria, he told us about how he was cleaning toilets on an airplane.”
Supporters, however, defended the anecdote as evidence of Obi’s humility and willingness to “clean up messes” – metaphorically extending to Nigeria’s governance and security woes.
Obi’s comments come amid his recent declarations about contesting the 2027 presidential election, where he ruled out accepting a vice-presidential role and emphasized his experience in turning challenges around.
As of publication, Peter Obi’s media team has not issued an official statement clarifying or expanding on the remarks. The incident has fueled ongoing debates about leadership style ahead of the next election cycle.