Two types of people in Nehemiah 5 - the nobles, and Nehemiah and his followers
Verses 1 to 13 describe the problem of slavery and debt to buy food
Verses 14 to 19 describe Nehemiah not demanding the governor's allowance.
The work of God to rebuild Jerusalem proceeds, but internal division seems to threaten it.
Charging of interest on loans that kept the people alive was against Mosaic law.
If the nobles continued in their self interest, they risk the work of God.
Nehemiah is totally devoted to the work of God.