Peter Obi has cautioned Nigerians against the growing tendency to associate crime with ethnicity, warning that such narratives undermine national unity and fuel division across the country.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement issued on Monday, Obi said many Nigerians have, at different times, suffered stereotyping and discrimination purely because of their ethnic identity. He noted that this kind of profiling reduces individuals to tribal labels rather than judging them based on their personal conduct and character.
“As an Igbo man, I have endured stereotypes, judgment, and labelling solely based on my ethnic origins,” he said.
He added that this experience is not unique to the Igbo ethnic group, stressing that people from different regions across Nigeria also face similar prejudice in everyday life.
“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.”
Obi also expressed empathy for ordinary Fulani citizens, noting that they are often unfairly associated with criminal activities committed by individuals or groups they have no connection with.
“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.
He maintained that criminal acts should be treated strictly as individual offences, not as representations of any 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.
The former presidential candidate called for the arrest and prosecution of offenders based on the law, warning against the dangers of collective blame.
He said, “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.”
Obi further urged Nigerians to embrace cultural diversity and resist divisive narratives often amplified in political and social discourse.
“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 said.
He concluded by calling for a more united and fair society where individuals are judged by their actions rather than their background.
“A new Nigeria must emerge, one where no citizen is condemned because of tribe, religion, or birthplace,” he said. “We can cherish our cultural roots while standing united by justice, mutual respect, and hope for a better future.”
