… She’s not my wife, Peter Obi clarifies
A Nigerian citizen, Margaret Obi, has achieved a historic milestone by being appointed as a High Court Judge in England and Wales, marking her as the first African-born individual to attain such a prestigious position in the British judicial system.
The announcement drew widespread celebration among Nigerians at home and abroad, as many described her elevation as a powerful testament to the global competence and excellence of Nigerian professionals.
Peter Obi Congratulates Margaret Obi
Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, confirmed the development in a congratulatory message posted via his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Friday.
Describing the appointment as “a well-deserved recognition of excellence and integrity,” Obi praised Mrs. Margaret Obi’s inspiring journey from private legal practice to the highest echelons of the judiciary in the United Kingdom.
“Her remarkable journey from solicitor to the Bench, with over 27 years of legal practice and seven years of judicial service, stands as a testament to hard work, integrity, and professional excellence,” Peter Obi wrote.
He noted that her career trajectory reflects the resilience, intellect, and global competitiveness of Nigerians who excel when given equal opportunities.
Clearing the Air on Identity Confusion
Peter Obi also addressed a recurring case of mistaken identity, as many social media users had assumed that Mrs. Margaret Obi was his wife due to their shared surname.
“Due to the similarity in name, Mrs. Obi is often mistaken for my wife, but for clarity, she is not,” he clarified.
He added that his wife, from the onset, has always officially identified herself as Mrs. Margaret Peter-Obi, to avoid such confusion.
A Symbol of Nigerian Excellence Abroad
The former governor used the opportunity to highlight the broader message behind Mrs. Obi’s accomplishment — the importance of creating a society where merit and excellence are rewarded.
“Her achievement once again highlights the outstanding potential of Nigerians who continue to excel globally when provided with the right environment to thrive,” Obi stated.
“We are challenged by the remarkable attainments of Nigerians in other climes to build a nation that fosters such excellence within our own borders.”
He concluded his message with his signature note of optimism:
“A new Nigeria is POssible – PO.”
A Trailblazing Career
Justice Margaret Obi’s elevation to the High Court Bench crowns a career spanning nearly three decades in the legal profession. Having built her reputation on diligence, competence, and integrity, she has earned respect within the British legal community.
Her appointment is being hailed not only as a personal achievement but also as a milestone for Africans in the diaspora — particularly Nigerian professionals who continue to make their mark in international institutions.
Observers say her success reinforces the global reputation of Nigerians as high achievers in academia, law, medicine, and technology proving that with fairness, opportunity, and good governance, similar feats can be replicated at home.
