By Jude Opara
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in the forthcoming 2027 general elections, Peter Obi has urged Nigerians to desist from what he described as; “media framing of crime along ethnic lines”, warning that it as divisive and unfair to the tribes involved.
Obi who was writing on his X handle on Monday said haven been stereotyped on the account of his tribe, he understands how painful it is when people are profiled because of where they come from and their religion.
“As an Igbo man, I have endured stereotypes, judgment, and labelling solely based on my ethnic origins.
“This is not an isolated Igbo experience. Most Nigerians have, at some point, been reduced to their ethnicity rather than recognised for their true character. I understand the pain of the ordinary Fulani man today, often unfairly judged by the actions of criminals he does not support, has never met, and who are not representative of his people.
“Even in America, such unjust labelling fueled the civil rights movement and prompted Martin Luther King Jr. to declare that people should be judged by the content of their character, not the colour of their skin.
“Every Nigerian ethnic group is known for its unique traditions, occupations, skills, and strengths.
The former governor of Anambra state further stated that stereotyping is very bad because there are criminal minded people from every part of the world, therefore making a blanket condemnation of an entire tribe because of the offence committed by people they don’t even know was unacceptable.
“Crime, however, has no ethnicity. A thief is a thief, a terrorist is a terrorist, a kidnapper is a kidnapper. They are bad actors, not representatives of any people. They must be identified, arrested, and punished according to the law. 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. Let us proudly celebrate our diverse cultures, talents, and contributions, rather than falling prey to stereotypes and prejudices that politicians and divisive interests exploit for their gain. A new Nigeria must emerge—one where no citizen is condemned because of tribe, religion, or birthplace”.
Obi noted that Nigerians as a people can cherish their cultural roots while standing united by justice, mutual respect, and hope for a better future, which he insists is achievable.
