Political Economist Says Obi Chose Economy Class While Serving As Anambra Governor
Political economist and former presidential candidate, Professor Pat Utomi, has shared an account of a past trip in which he travelled on the same British Airways flight from Lagos to London with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi.
Speaking during a recent interview, Utomi said he and Tinubu were seated in the first-class cabin, while Peter Obi, who was serving as Governor of Anambra State at the time, chose to travel in the economy section of the aircraft.
According to Utomi, after the flight landed in London, he and Tinubu proceeded towards the immigration area before noticing Obi walking behind them. He said they paused briefly to wait for him, after which Obi explained that he had been seated in the economy cabin throughout the journey.
Utomi described Obi as someone he has known for many years, saying the former governor consistently demonstrated a reputation for prudence and careful management of public resources during his tenure in Anambra State.
He noted that Obi’s decision to travel in economy class reflected what he described as the former governor’s personal philosophy of modesty and cost-consciousness while in public office.
The remarks come amid increasing political discussions ahead of the 2027 general election, with political leaders and commentators assessing the leadership styles, records and personal conduct of major political figures expected to shape the presidential contest.
Professor Utomi has in previous interviews consistently described Peter Obi as a disciplined administrator and has repeatedly emphasised the need for prudent management of public resources, institutional reforms and accountable governance as critical to Nigeria’s development.
Neither President Bola Tinubu nor Peter Obi has publicly responded to the specific account of the London flight shared by Professor Utomi.
