Peter Obi Condemns Ethnic Profiling, Defends Ordinary Fulani Against Stereotypes
Former presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has spoken against the growing trend of linking crime to ethnic groups, warning that such narratives are dangerous and divisive.
In a statement shared on his verified X account on Monday, Obi said he understands the pain of being judged based on ethnicity, recalling how he has often faced stereotypes and labels simply because he is Igbo.
According to him, the experience is not limited to the Igbo people, as many Nigerians have at different times been assessed based on their ethnic background rather than their individual character.
Obi expressed concern over what he described as the unfair treatment of ordinary Fulani people, many of whom are often blamed for crimes committed by individuals they neither know nor support.
He stressed that criminality should never be associated with any ethnic group, insisting that people should be held accountable for their actions as individuals.
“A thief is a thief. A terrorist is a terrorist. A kidnapper is a kidnapper. They are criminals and should not be seen as representatives of any ethnic group,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor noted that every ethnic group in Nigeria is known for its unique culture, values, occupations and contributions to society, adding that crime has no ethnic identity.
Drawing inspiration from the American civil rights movement, Obi referenced the words of Martin Luther King Jr., who advocated judging people by the content of their character rather than their race or background.
He urged Nigerians to reject the practice of profiling entire communities because of the actions of a few individuals, warning that such attitudes only deepen division and fuel hatred.
Obi called for greater appreciation of Nigeria’s diversity and urged citizens to focus on promoting justice, mutual respect and national unity.
He maintained that while criminals must be identified, arrested and punished according to the law, innocent people should not be subjected to suspicion or discrimination because of their ethnicity.
According to him, building a united Nigeria requires citizens to rise above stereotypes and recognise one another based on character, integrity and personal conduct rather than ethnic origin.
