Peter Obi condemns ethnic profiling and warns Nigerians against linking crime to any ethnic group. The Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate described such narratives as divisive and harmful to national unity.
In a statement posted on his verified X handle on Monday, Obi urged citizens to stop judging entire communities by the actions of a few criminals. He stressed that crime has no ethnic identity and should not define any tribe.
Obi said he has faced stereotypes and discrimination because of his Igbo background. He added that many Nigerians have experienced similar treatment based on ethnicity rather than character.
Peter Obi condemns ethnic profiling by highlighting the unfair treatment many Fulani people face because of crimes committed by individuals who do not represent their communities.
“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 compared the situation to the civil rights struggle in the United States. He recalled how Martin Luther King Jr. urged people to judge others by their character and not their background.
He said Nigeria’s ethnic groups contribute to national development through their cultures, talents, and skills. He maintained that no tribe should be associated with criminal acts.
“Crime has no ethnicity. A thief is a thief. A terrorist is a terrorist. A kidnapper is a kidnapper. They are criminals, not representatives of any ethnic group,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor urged Nigerians to reject collective blame and ethnic profiling. He warned that such practices fuel hatred and weaken national unity.
Obi also called on citizens to celebrate Nigeria’s diversity and reject attempts to exploit ethnic differences for political gain.
He advocated a country where people are judged by their actions, values, and character rather than their tribe, religion, or place of birth.
According to Obi, Nigeria can build a stronger future through justice, unity, and mutual respect. He expressed confidence that a new Nigeria remains possible.
