ETHNIC PROFILING FUELS DIVISION, NOT JUSTICE — PETER OBI CALLS FOR UNITED NIGERIA

Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the growing trend of linking criminal activities to entire ethnic groups, warning that such narratives are dangerous, divisive, and a threat to Nigeria’s fragile unity.
In a passionate message shared via his official X account (formerly Twitter), Obi argued that criminality should never be attributed to any tribe, stressing that individuals must be judged by their actions and character rather than their ethnic origins.
Drawing from personal experience, the former Anambra State governor revealed that, as an Igbo man, he has often faced stereotypes and unfair judgments solely because of his ethnicity.
“As an Igbo man, I have endured stereotypes, judgment, and labelling based solely on my ethnic origins. This is not an isolated Igbo experience. Most Nigerians have, at some point, been reduced to their ethnicity rather than recognised for who they truly are,” he stated.
Obi expressed empathy for ordinary Fulani citizens who, he said, are increasingly subjected to suspicion and condemnation because of the actions of criminal elements with whom they share neither values nor affiliation.
“I understand the pain of the ordinary Fulani man today, often unfairly judged by the actions of criminals he neither supports nor knows, and who do not represent his people,” he added.
Referencing the historic struggle for civil rights in the United States, Obi recalled the enduring words of civil rights icon, , who famously advocated that people should be judged by the content of their character rather than the colour of their skin.
The former presidential candidate maintained that while Nigeria’s ethnic groups are celebrated for their unique cultures, traditions, talents, and contributions, crime remains a universal evil that knows no tribe.
“A thief is a thief. A terrorist is a terrorist. A kidnapper is a kidnapper. These criminals are bad actors, not representatives of entire ethnic groups. They must be identified, arrested, and prosecuted according to the law,” Obi declared.
He warned that the continued practice of assigning collective guilt to entire communities for the crimes of a few individuals only deepens mistrust, fuels hatred, and undermines national cohesion.
“We must decisively reject the dangerous habit of blaming entire ethnic groups for the actions of a few criminals. It is unjust, harmful, and detrimental to our collective future as a nation,” he said.
Calling for a renewed commitment to unity, Obi urged Nigerians to celebrate the nation’s rich diversity rather than succumb to prejudice and ethnic stereotyping often exploited by self-serving political interests.
He concluded with a vision of a more inclusive nation where every citizen enjoys equal dignity and opportunity regardless of tribe, religion, or place of birth.
“A new Nigeria must emerge—one where no citizen is condemned because of tribe, religion, or birthplace. We can honour our cultural identities while standing united by justice, mutual respect, and a shared hope for a better future. A New Nigeria is within our reach.”