A luxury handbag reportedly carried by Margaret Obi, wife of 2027 presidential hopeful Peter Obi, has sparked debate on social media, with Nigerians divided over the couple’s lifestyle and public image.
Margaret was seen carrying the handbag at an event in a video that has gone viral online. Social media users identified the item as a Hermès Kelly 35 in Malachite and claimed it is listed on the luxury fashion house’s website for £131,938.81, which they estimated at more than N237 million.
The reported value of the handbag has generated mixed reactions, with some Nigerians questioning the appropriateness of such an expensive accessory, while others argued that Margaret has the right to spend her money as she wishes.
Lere Olayinka, a media aide to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, joined the discussion, criticising Peter Obi’s portrayal of himself as a prudent and modest individual.
Olayinka argued that the reported cost of the handbag was at odds with Obi’s campaign fundraising appeals and his public image of frugality.
He also questioned how Nigerians would perceive the lifestyle of a political leader whose family is associated with such expensive luxury items.
Media personality Daddy Freeze, however, said he had no issue with Margaret carrying a luxury handbag, noting that Peter Obi is a wealthy businessman who was already financially successful before entering public office.
Freeze said his concern was the apparent contrast between Obi’s reported lifestyle and his repeated claims about owning only one pair of shoes and one wristwatch.
“I have no problem with Peter Obi’s wife carrying a luxury bag; her husband is a billionaire. He was rich before he came into government,” he said.
Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju also dismissed the criticism of Margaret, saying there was nothing inherently wrong with her carrying an expensive handbag.
However, Adeyanju argued that some Nigerians were reacting to what he described as a perceived contradiction between Obi’s public image and the lifestyle associated with him.
The controversy has continued to fuel online discussions about wealth, personal spending and the expectations placed on politicians who campaign on messages of prudence and accountability.
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