Peter Obi Surprised as TikTok Users Send Gifts During Live Session

Former Anambra State governor and2027 General Election NDC Presidential Candidate, Peter Obi appeared surprised after viewers sent virtual gifts during his appearance on a TikTok Live session hosted by the Emir Sirdam Show.

Obi joined the broadcast on Sunday night, October 11, where he interacted with viewers and discussed national issues ahead of the 2027 general election.

According to reports by Tribune Online and People’s Voice, viewers sent virtual gifts, including flowers, lions and universe tokens, while interactive filters added different caps, glasses and moustaches to his appearance on screen.

Reacting to the experience, Obi reportedly said, “I am wondering what is happening to me this evening,” as the show’s host explained the gifts and visual effects appearing during the broadcast.

The session provided an informal setting for the politician to interact with viewers, with the platform’s features allowing participants to communicate through comments and send digital gifts.

Reports said the broadcast attracted thousands of concurrent viewers and millions of likes. However, the exact audience figures could not be independently verified.

Obi’s appearance reflects the growing use of digital platforms by politicians seeking to communicate directly with voters, particularly younger audiences.

Unlike conventional political engagements, TikTok Live allows public figures to interact with viewers in real time, respond to comments and participate in less formal conversations.

The platform also allows eligible creators to receive virtual gifts purchased by viewers. However, the gifts are digital items rather than direct cash payments, and their monetary value to a creator depends on TikTok’s applicable reward and withdrawal arrangements.

No independently verified figures were available to establish the monetary value of the gifts sent during Obi’s broadcast.

Obi, who served as governor of Anambra State from 2006 to 2014, was the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election.

He is now the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 election.

His TikTok appearance comes as political activities ahead of the next general election continue, with social media providing another channel through which candidates and political organisations can reach potential voters.