The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has cautioned Nigerians against associating criminal activities with entire ethnic groups, describing the practice as dangerous, divisive, and harmful to national unity.
In a statement shared on his verified X account on Monday, Obi said no ethnic group should be judged by the actions of a few criminal elements, stressing that crime is an individual act and not a cultural or tribal identity.
According to him, he understands the pain of being stereotyped because he has personally experienced prejudice as an Igbo man.
“As an Igbo man, I have endured stereotypes, judgment and labelling solely because of my ethnic origin. This is not unique to the Igbo people; many Nigerians have faced similar experiences,” he said.
Obi noted that many Fulani people are currently facing unfair criticism and suspicion because of the activities of criminals who do not represent the larger Fulani community.
He stressed that ordinary citizens should not be blamed for crimes committed by individuals they neither know nor support.
Drawing inspiration from the American civil rights movement, Obi referenced the message of Martin Luther King Jr., who advocated judging people by their character rather than their background or identity.
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The former Anambra State governor said Nigeria’s various ethnic groups have contributed immensely to the country through their unique cultures, talents and achievements, adding that criminality should never be used to define any tribe.
“Crime has no ethnicity. A thief is a thief. A kidnapper is a kidnapper. A terrorist is a terrorist. They are criminals and should be treated as such, not as representatives of any ethnic group,” he stated.
Obi urged Nigerians to reject ethnic profiling and collective blame, warning that such attitudes only deepen divisions and weaken national cohesion.
He also called on citizens to celebrate Nigeria’s diversity and resist attempts by politicians and vested interests to exploit ethnic differences for personal gain.
According to him, the country must move towards a future where people are judged by their actions, values and character rather than their tribe, religion or place of birth.
Obi concluded by expressing confidence that a more united and inclusive Nigeria is possible, saying citizens must embrace justice, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence to build a better future for all.
