The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general election, Peter Obi, has fired back at those criticising his wife over a Hermès Kelly bag reportedly worth about N250 million.

Obi said: “I don’t know how my wife dresses or the bag or shoes she wears. I can even say now she’s actually a bit less sophisticated. She used to be far more sophisticated before I became governor.”

“And if she earns money and wants to buy an expensive watch, that’s her own. It’s not my business. We’re managing public money. As long as the life she lives does not in any way—bills are not paid from public money—and she’s happy with it, it doesn’t conflict with my interest.”

“That’s what I say to people. As long as what you do suits you and doesn’t conflict with my interest, and it’s not paid for with public money, you can do it.”

“I don’t celebrate birthdays. I’m not into celebration, but I don’t stop anybody from celebrating. As long as it suits them, it doesn’t conflict with my interests, and I’m not paying the bill, I will even attend the party.”

The internet came alive after the former First Lady of Anambra State, Margaret Obi, was spotted carrying a Hermès Kelly bag reportedly worth £131,938.81, sparking reactions from social media users.