By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, on Monday urged Nigerians to reject ethnic profiling and collective blame. Speaking through a post on his verified X account, Obi warned that associating crimes with ethnic groups fuels division and threatens national unity. He made the remarks while addressing growing concerns over narratives linking criminal activities to certain ethnic communities. Obi stressed that criminals should face justice as individuals, regardless of their ethnic background.
Crime Has No Ethnic Identity – Peter Obi
Obi stated that crime should never be linked to any ethnic group. According to him, criminals act as individuals and do not represent entire communities.
“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 said.
He added that security agencies should identify, arrest, and prosecute offenders based on the law rather than ethnic considerations.
Nigerians Must Reject Collective Blame
Furthermore, Obi urged Nigerians to abandon the practice of blaming entire ethnic groups for the actions of a few criminals.
“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 stated.
According to him, collective blame deepens mistrust and weakens efforts to build a united nation.
Fulani People Also Face Unfair Stereotypes
Obi noted that many Fulani people currently face prejudice because of crimes committed by individuals who do not represent their communities.
“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 explained that ethnic stereotyping unfairly affects innocent citizens and promotes discrimination.
Personal Experience With Ethnic Stereotyping
The former Anambra State governor revealed that he has also experienced ethnic prejudice as an Igbo man.
“As an Igbo man, I have endured stereotypes, judgment, and labelling solely based on my ethnic origins,” Obi said.
He added that many Nigerians have faced similar experiences, regardless of their ethnic background.
Obi Calls for Celebration of Nigeria’s Diversity
Meanwhile, Obi encouraged Nigerians to celebrate the country’s cultural diversity instead of allowing politicians to exploit ethnic differences.
“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 maintained that Nigeria’s ethnic groups contribute significantly to national development and should not be defined by criminal activities.
Reference to Martin Luther King Jr.
Obi also drew parallels with the civil rights movement in the United States. He referenced the message of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., who advocated judging people by their character rather than their background.
“People should be judged by the content of their character, not the colour of their skin,” Obi recalled.
He stressed that Nigerians should adopt the same principle by judging citizens based on their actions and values rather than tribe, religion, or place of birth.
A New Nigeria Is Possible
Obi concluded by expressing optimism about the country’s future. He said Nigerians can preserve their cultural identities while remaining united through justice, respect, and shared hope.
“A new Nigeria must emerge—one where no citizen is condemned because of tribe, religion, or birthplace. A new Nigeria is within our reach,” he stated.
