The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has spoken out against the increasing tendency to associate criminal activities with particular ethnic groups, warning that such generalisations threaten national cohesion and social harmony.
In a statement shared via his verified X account on Monday, Obi urged Nigerians to avoid judging entire communities based on the misconduct of a few individuals, emphasizing that criminal behaviour should never be tied to ethnic identity.
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“As an Igbo man, I have experienced prejudice, stereotyping, and unfair assumptions simply because of my ethnic background. This is not unique to the Igbo people; many Nigerians have faced situations where they are defined by their tribe instead of their personal values and conduct,” he stated.
The former governor of Anambra State noted that many Fulani citizens are currently experiencing similar discrimination due to the actions of criminal groups with whom they have no connection.
“I understand the challenges faced by the average Fulani person today, who is often unfairly associated with crimes committed by individuals he neither knows nor supports and who do not reflect the values of his community,” Obi said.
Referencing the American civil rights struggle, Obi highlighted the enduring message of civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr., who championed the idea that people should be assessed based on their character rather than their origins.
“History offers lessons. In the United States, widespread discrimination helped inspire the civil rights movement, leading Martin Luther King Jr. to advocate that people be judged by who they are, not by the colour of their skin,” he remarked.
Obi stressed that while Nigeria’s ethnic groups possess distinct traditions, talents, and strengths, criminal acts should never be attributed to any tribe or cultural group.
“A criminal is simply a criminal. Whether a thief, kidnapper, or terrorist, such individuals represent only themselves and not an entire ethnic community. They should be identified, prosecuted, and punished in accordance with the law,” he said.
He further urged Nigerians to reject collective blame and ethnic profiling, warning that these attitudes deepen divisions and hinder efforts to foster national unity.
“We must put an end to the harmful practice of holding entire ethnic groups responsible for the actions of a few offenders. Such thinking is unfair, promotes resentment, and weakens the bonds that hold us together as a nation,” Obi stated.
The Labour Party chieftain also encouraged citizens to embrace Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity and resist attempts by political actors to exploit ethnic differences for personal or partisan interests.
“Rather than allowing stereotypes and prejudice to shape our views, we should celebrate the unique cultures, talents, and contributions that make our nation stronger,” he said.
Obi concluded by advocating for a society where people are evaluated based on integrity, conduct, and merit rather than ethnicity, religion, or place of origin.
“We must build a Nigeria where no one is judged or discriminated against because of their tribe, faith, or birthplace. While we can take pride in our cultural identities, we must remain united through justice, respect, and a shared vision for a better future.
That Nigeria is possible, and it is within our grasp,” he added.
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