Former Anambra State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress, (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the growing trend of linking crime to ethnic groups, describing the practice as divisive and harmful to national unity.
In a statement on Monday, Obi said no Nigerian should be judged based on tribe, religion, or place of birth, stressing that criminal acts should be attributed to individuals rather than entire ethnic communities.
Drawing from his personal experience as an Igbo man, Obi said he understood the pain of being stereotyped because of one’s ethnic background. He noted that many ordinary Fulani people are currently facing unfair judgment over crimes committed by individuals who do not represent their community.
The former presidential candidate argued that criminality has no ethnic identity, insisting that thieves, terrorists, kidnappers, and other offenders should be treated as criminals and punished according to the law without attaching their actions to any ethnic group.
Obi also referenced the civil rights movement in the United States, recalling the message of Martin Luther King Jr. that individuals should be judged by their character rather than their background.
He urged Nigerians to reject ethnic stereotyping and focus instead on celebrating the country’s cultural diversity, talents, and contributions, warning that prejudice and division are often exploited by politicians and vested interests.
Obi called for the emergence of a “new Nigeria” built on justice, mutual respect, and national unity, expressing confidence that citizens can overcome ethnic and religious divisions to create a better future for the country.
“A new Nigeria is within our reach,” he stated.
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