The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 election, Peter Obi, has urged Nigerians to embrace unity and desist from ethnic generalisation.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, Obi disclosed that, as an Igbo man, he has endured stereotypes, judgment, and labelling solely because of his ethnic origin.
He stated that this is not an isolated Igbo experience, stressing that most Nigerians have, at some point, been reduced to their ethnicity rather than recognised for their true character.
“I understand the pain of the ordinary Fulani man today, often unfairly judged by the actions of criminals he does not support, has never met, and who are not representative of his people,” he said.
Obi noted that even in the United States, such unjust labelling fuelled the civil rights movement and inspired Martin Luther King Jr.’s call for people to be judged by the content of their character rather than the colour of their skin.
He explained that every Nigerian ethnic group is known for its unique traditions, occupations, skills, and strengths, emphasising that crime has no ethnicity.
“A thief is a thief. A terrorist is a terrorist. A kidnapper is a kidnapper. They are bad actors, not representatives of any people. They must be identified, arrested, and punished according to the law,” he stated.
Obi further urged Nigerians to decisively abandon the dangerous practice of blaming entire ethnic groups for the actions of a few criminals, warning that it is unjust, breeds hatred, and damages national unity.
He advised citizens to proudly celebrate Nigeria’s diverse cultures, talents, and contributions rather than fall prey to stereotypes and prejudices that politicians and divisive interests exploit for their own gain.
Obi asserted that a new Nigeria must emerge — one where no citizen is condemned because of tribe, religion, or birthplace.
He added that Nigerians can cherish their cultural roots while standing united by justice, mutual respect, and hope for a better future.
