Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 election, has cautioned against what he described as the dangerous practice of attributing criminal behaviour to entire ethnic groups, warning that such framing undermines national unity.
In a statement titled “Media Framing of Crime Along Ethnic Lines: Divisive”, posted on his official X handle on Monday, June 8, Obi said media narratives that link crime to ethnicity are divisive and harmful to social cohesion.
“As an Igbo man, I have endured stereotypes, judgment, and labelling solely based on my ethnic origins.
“This is not an isolated Igbo experience. Most Nigerians have, at some point, been reduced to their ethnicity rather than recognised for their true character.”
He stressed that the experience is not unique to the Igbo community, noting that many Nigerians face similar prejudice irrespective of background.
“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.”
Drawing a historical comparison, Obi referenced global civil rights struggles to emphasise the dangers of stereotyping.
“Even in America, such unjust labelling fueled the civil rights movement and prompted Martin Luther King Jr. to declare that people should be judged by the content of their character, not the colour of their skin.”
He argued that while Nigeria’s ethnic groups are defined by rich cultural diversity, criminality should never be associated with identity.
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“Every Nigerian ethnic group is known for its unique traditions, occupations, skills, and strengths. Crime, however, 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.”
Obi warned that collective blame based on ethnicity fuels division and weakens national unity.
“We must decisively abandon the dangerous practice of blaming entire ethnic groups for the actions of a few criminals. It is unjust, it breeds hatred, and it damages our national unity.”
He called for a renewed national consciousness rooted in respect for diversity and rejection of stereotypes.
“Let us proudly celebrate our diverse cultures, talents, and contributions, rather than falling prey to stereotypes and prejudices that politicians and divisive interests exploit for their gain.”
Concluding his message, Obi advocated for a Nigeria built on justice, equality and shared identity beyond ethnic or religious lines.
“A new Nigeria must emerge—one where no citizen is condemned because of tribe, religion, or birthplace.
“We can cherish our cultural roots while standing united by justice, mutual respect, and hope for a better future. We are capable of this. A new Nigeria is within our reach. -PO,” he concluded.