The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has criticised the increasing tendency among some Nigerians to belittle their fellow citizens, describing it as deeply regrettable.
Obi made the remark while reacting to recent comments that referred to some of his supporters as “street urchins” and “people of no value.”
The former governor of Anambra State condemned such remarks as degrading and indicative of a worrying social attitude.
“Recently, I have heard people claim that those who support me are low-class Nigerians, with some even calling them ‘street urchins’ and people of no value. It is truly unfortunate that, in today’s Nigeria, citizens now demean one another in such a disparaging manner,” Obi said.
He emphasised that he has never looked down on anyone except with the intention of lifting them up, noting that his political mission has always been to stand with ordinary Nigerians.
“I have never, and will never, look down on anyone — except to help them rise. We can only progress by lifting one another. My involvement in politics has never been about mingling with the so-called elite but about defending everyday Nigerians whose voices have been silenced and whose resources have been stolen by the same ‘big names’ who now flaunt titles,” he stated.
Obi stressed that every Nigerian holds value and condemned the habit of some leaders who speak condescendingly about struggling citizens.
“No Nigerian is worthless. No Nigerian is a street urchin. It reflects poorly on our nation when ordinary people, who are suffering from poverty and hardship, are labelled as valueless by their leaders,” he said.
He further asserted that all Nigerians deserve dignity, opportunity, and compassion.
“That is why I remain committed to ensuring that ordinary Nigerians have a better quality of life — with access to education, quality healthcare, and meaningful efforts to lift them out of poverty. True leadership is not about mocking the weak; it is about supporting them,” Obi concluded.
Humanity is paramount in my politics, no street urchins
Lately, I have heard a few people say that those who follow Peter Obi are low-class Nigerians, and some have even gone as far as calling them “street urchins” and people of no value. It is deeply unfortunate that in…
— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) October 8, 2025