Former Anambra State Governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has urged Nigerians living in the United Kingdom to stop sending money to relatives and others seeking financial assistance in Nigeria, arguing that poor leadership is at the root of the country’s economic challenges.
Obi made the appeal on Sunday during a town hall meeting with Nigerian supporters in Manchester, where he encouraged Nigerians in the diaspora to support credible and productive leadership ahead of the 2027 general election.
“You have people at home in Nigeria today who are begging you for money. Tell them no!” he said.
The former governor argued that while financial support from Nigerians abroad helps families cope with rising living costs, it does not address the underlying problems affecting the country. He urged those living overseas to encourage their relatives at home to demand better governance through their votes.
Obi also defended his record as governor of Anambra State, claiming that he had saved substantial public funds during his tenure.
“I’m not saying I’m a saint, but I saved money. I’ve not seen one governor who has saved 10 per cent of what I saved. No governor has done it,” he said.
He further argued that corruption and the alleged diversion of public funds had contributed to the poor state of essential public services, including schools and hospitals.
According to him, meaningful national development requires citizens to reject corruption and hold political leaders accountable for their actions.
Obi called on Nigerians to take the 2027 elections seriously, describing the vote as an opportunity to bring about a change in leadership and improve the country’s direction.
REACTIONS TO OBI’S COMMENTS
The remarks have attracted mixed reactions on social media, with some users criticising the suggestion that Nigerians abroad should withhold financial assistance from relatives facing hardship.
Some critics questioned the implications of the appeal for families who depend on remittances to meet essential needs, including food, healthcare and education. Others accused the presidential candidate of using the economic difficulties faced by Nigerians to advance his political campaign.
One social media user questioned why Nigerians abroad should be encouraged to support Obi’s political movement while being advised to stop sending money to their families.
Other critics argued that financial support for relatives should not be made conditional on political outcomes, particularly when many households depend on money sent from overseas to survive.
Obi is expected to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, as political parties and aspirants intensify efforts to mobilise support across Nigeria and among citizens living abroad.
