The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has warned against associating criminal activities with any ethnic group, stressing that wrongdoing should be treated as an individual act rather than an ethnic identity.
In a statement issued on Monday, Obi said many Nigerians have faced discrimination and unfair judgments because of their ethnic backgrounds, noting that such attitudes undermine national unity.
“As an Igbo man, I have endured stereotypes, judgment, and labelling solely based on my ethnic origins,” he said.
“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.”
The former governor of Anambra State said he empathises with ordinary Fulani citizens who are often unfairly judged because of the actions of criminal elements operating in parts of the country.
“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 maintained that criminal behaviour should never be used to define an entire ethnic group.
“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,” he added.
He stressed that offenders should be identified, arrested and prosecuted according to the law without extending blame to their ethnic communities.
“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 said.
Obi also encouraged Nigerians to embrace the country’s cultural diversity and resist stereotypes and prejudices.
“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,” he stated.
He further called for a society where people are judged by their conduct rather than their ethnicity, religion or place of origin.
“A new Nigeria must emerge — one where no citizen is condemned because of tribe, religion, or birthplace,” Obi said.
“We can cherish our cultural roots while standing united by justice, mutual respect, and hope for a better future.”