A social media debate has erupted after Margaret Obi, wife of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi, was spotted with a high-end designer handbag.

 

Viral online posts identified the accessory as a Hermès Kelly 35 in Malachite, with some users claiming it retails for £131,938.81—which they calculated to be worth around ₦237 million to ₦250 million. The claims sparked mixed reactions across social media, drawing both sharp criticism and defenses of her personal wealth.

 

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**Linda Ikeji Weighs In: "It's Not a ₦250m Bag"**

 

Prominent blogger and luxury brand enthusiast Linda Ikeji dismissed the reported price tag on her Instagram page, urging Nigerians not to jump to extreme conclusions based on internet rumors.

 

> *"Relax people… this is not a N250m bag…. If it was, you think she would be traveling with it? I know how much these bags cost, because I have a few. Relax!"*

> — **Linda Ikeji**

 

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**Peter Obi Responds to Critics**

 

Addressing the controversy directly, Peter Obi explained that his wife operates as an independent businesswoman who manages her own personal finances and spending choices.

 

* **Independent Income:** Obi noted that his wife runs her own enterprise and funds her lifestyle with her personal income.

* **No Track of Shoe/Bag Costs:** He stated that he does not keep track of the retail prices for his wife’s personal items or wardrobe choices.

* **Separation of Public and Personal Funds:** Obi emphasized his clean record in managing public funds during his time in office, reassuring the public that personal family expenses remain completely separate from public resources.

 

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While online commentators continue to debate the optics of luxury fashion in politics, both Ikeji and Obi have pushed back against the viral claims, urging critics to focus on actual governance and public resource management.