Peter Obi has categorically denied allegations that he made divisive comments about northern Nigerians, describing the accusation as entirely false. The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate pointed to his extensive humanitarian work and deep-rooted relationships across northern Nigeria to counter the claims.
Obi Dismisses Allegation as False
During an interview on Channels Television's Sunday Politics, Obi was asked about the accusation. He responded bluntly: "That's a lie. It never happened." The former Anambra governor insisted that his actions over the years demonstrate a commitment to national unity, not division.
Humanitarian Visits Across the North
Obi listed humanitarian visits to multiple northern states, including Borno, Benue, Katsina, Kebbi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, and Sokoto. In these states, he said he met victims of violence and other crises. He also recalled spending Christmas and New Year celebrations in internally displaced persons (IDP) camps, underscoring his personal engagement with communities in distress.
Support for Borno During Crisis
The NDC candidate specifically referenced Borno State, noting that he traveled there during the early Boko Haram insurgency to console former governor Ali Modu Sheriff after his brother was killed. He later returned after severe flooding in the state, donating N50 million, meeting the governor and the Shehu of Borno, and visiting displaced residents.
Inclusive Governance in Anambra
Obi highlighted his record as governor of Anambra State to illustrate his inclusive approach. He noted that his aide-de-camp (ADC) was a Muslim from Kano, his cooks came from northern Nigeria, and his administration sponsored Muslim faithful in the state for the annual Hajj pilgrimage. "As governor, I was paying for Muslims living in Anambra to go to Hajj," he said.
Ongoing Support for Northern Communities
Obi further stated that he currently supports Almajiri schools in Kano and Bauchi, alongside a School of Nursing in Bauchi. He maintained that these actions reflect his commitment to national unity rather than hostility toward the North.
Previous Call for Tinubu Not to Seek Re-election
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Obi urged President Bola Tinubu not to contest the 2027 presidential election. Obi argued that Nigeria needs new leadership to address worsening economic and security challenges. He said Tinubu had changed since serving as Lagos governor and no longer had the capacity to solve the country's problems.
