Sam Atandi opens up on why he is a teetotaller
By Valerian Khakayi, May 18, 2026Alego Usonga Member of Parliament (MP) Sam Atandi has revealed details about his lifestyle choices, including why he stopped drinking alcohol and adopted a strict fitness routine focused on discipline, health, and mental well-being.
Speaking about his past during an interview with media personality Oga Obinna on Monday, May 18, 2026, Atandi said he stopped drinking alcohol about ten years ago, explaining that he used to take wine socially before deciding to completely change his lifestyle.
He also dismissed claims that he still consumes alcohol, insisting that he has remained a teetotaller since making the change.
“I do not drink, some people have accused me of drinking. I stopped drinking, I think, 10 years ago,” Atandi revealed.
“I used to just socially drink, just wine, and then I stopped because I decided to change my life; I decided to run a fitness lifestyle.”
Fitness lifestyle
The legislator also emphasised his commitment to fitness, saying he goes to the gym early in the morning at around 5 a.m. and maintains a strict routine.
“I go to the gym first thing in the morning at 5 am. Fitness is not just for looking good; it is also for mental health,” he said, adding that political work is highly stressful and requires strong physical and mental discipline.
He noted that many leaders struggle with health issues such as high blood pressure due to stress, stressing the importance of staying active and disciplined.
“The job of a politician is very stressful; I can tell you at least 90 per cent of the MPs are suffering from blood pressure, so to avoid that, you stay fit. It also saves your mental health and your health throughout,” Atandi stated.
Additionally, the MP stressed that fitness requires discipline and consistency, especially for individuals in demanding professions such as politics.
“When you are in fitness, you have to be disciplined,” he added.
Sleeping routine
Atandi also explained his strict daily schedule, saying he sleeps early at around 9 p.m. and wakes up at 5 a.m., maintaining a consistent routine.
“I am not active at night; I am active during the day at night I sleep. I sleep latest at 9 pm, and I wake up at 5 am,” he disclosed.
“If you invite me for a function at night, I will just skip because I sleep early and wake up early that is how my body is tuned, I have to sleep for eight hours.”