Peter Obi condemns ethnic profiling, calls for national unity

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has condemned the practice of linking crime to ethnic groups, describing it as divisive and harmful to national unity.

In a statement shared on Friday, Obi said he understood the pain of being stereotyped and judged based on ethnic identity, noting that such experiences were not unique to the Igbo people but were common among many Nigerians.

“As an Igbo man, I have endured stereotypes, judgment, and labelling solely based on my ethnic origins,” he said, adding that many citizens had at some point been reduced to their ethnicity rather than being assessed by their character.

The former Anambra governor expressed sympathy for ordinary Fulani people who, according to him, are often unfairly blamed for criminal activities carried out by individuals who do not represent their ethnic group.

Obi argued that crime should not be associated with any ethnicity, insisting that criminals must be identified and treated as individuals under the law.

“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 stated.

Drawing parallels with the civil rights struggle in the United States, Obi referenced the message of Martin Luther King Jr., who advocated judging people by their character rather than their race.

He said Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups are known for their unique cultures, skills, traditions, and contributions to society, stressing that criminality should not define any community.

The former presidential candidate urged Nigerians to reject ethnic profiling and collective blame, warning that such practices foster hatred and weaken national cohesion.

“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 said.

Obi also cautioned against allowing politicians and divisive interests to exploit ethnic and religious differences for personal gain. He called on citizens to celebrate cultural diversity while promoting justice, mutual respect, and national solidarity.

According to him, Nigeria can build a more inclusive society where no citizen is judged based on tribe, religion, or place of birth.

“A new Nigeria must emerge—one where no citizen is condemned because of tribe, religion, or birthplace,” Obi said, expressing optimism that such a future remains achievable.