Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has called on Nigerians and the media to stop associating criminal activities with entire ethnic groups, warning that such narratives fuel division and undermine national unity.
In a statement shared on his verified X account on Monday, June 8, 2026, Obi described the practice of framing crimes along ethnic lines as dangerous and counterproductive, especially at a time when the country is battling insecurity, kidnappings, terrorism, and banditry.
The former Anambra State governor argued that criminal acts should be attributed to individuals rather than communities, stressing that no ethnic group should be collectively blamed for the actions of a few criminals.
Drawing from his personal experiences, Obi said he understands the consequences of ethnic stereotyping, noting that many Nigerians have faced unfair judgments based on their tribe, religion, or region of origin.
He particularly expressed concern over the growing tendency to associate ordinary Fulani citizens with crimes committed by armed herders and bandits. According to him, millions of law-abiding Fulani people are unfairly subjected to suspicion and hostility because of the actions of criminal elements they neither support nor participate in.
Obi maintained that criminality has no ethnic identity and urged Nigerians to separate crime from culture. He also called on media organisations to avoid reporting security issues in ways that encourage ethnic profiling or deepen existing divisions.
“The actions of criminals should not define an entire people,” Obi said, emphasizing that every ethnic group in Nigeria has made valuable contributions to the country's development.
Referencing the philosophy of American civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., Obi urged citizens to judge individuals by their character and actions rather than by their ethnic background. He argued that justice can only thrive when people are treated as individuals and held accountable for their own conduct.
The statement quickly generated widespread reactions across social media and news platforms, with many Nigerians praising Obi's call for unity and inclusion. Supporters described the message as a timely intervention in a country increasingly affected by ethnic tensions and mistrust.
Political observers also noted that the remarks could influence broader conversations about national cohesion ahead of the 2027 general elections, where issues of identity and regional politics are expected to feature prominently.
Obi concluded by reiterating his vision of a united Nigeria where citizens are treated equally regardless of tribe, religion, or place of birth.
He urged Nigerians to reject prejudice, embrace justice, and work together toward building a more peaceful and inclusive nation.