Peter Obi rejects ethnic profiling of Fulani, calls for national unity

Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, has condemned the ethnic profiling of Fulani people over the activities of criminal elements, warning that stereotyping entire ethnic groups for the actions of a few individuals threatens national unity and social cohesion.

In a statement titled “Media Framing of Crime Along Ethnic Lines: Divisive,” released on Monday, Obi said Nigerians must resist the temptation to associate criminality with any ethnic group, insisting that crimes should be attributed to individuals rather than entire communities.

The former Anambra State governor said he understands the consequences of ethnic stereotyping, having personally experienced prejudice and generalisation because of his Igbo heritage.

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“As an Igbo man, I have endured stereotypes, judgment and labelling solely based on my ethnic origins,” Obi said. “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.”

Obi said the same injustice is now being experienced by many ordinary Fulani people who are often unfairly associated with criminal activities allegedly perpetrated by bandits and other armed groups.

“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,” he stated.

Drawing parallels with the civil rights movement in the United States, Obi referenced the message of the late civil rights leader, Martin Luther King Jr., who advocated judging individuals by their character rather than their identity.

The NDC presidential candidate stressed that criminality transcends ethnic, religious and regional boundaries. “Every Nigerian ethnic group is known for its unique traditions, occupations, skills and strengths. Crime, however, has no ethnicity,” he said.

“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.”

Obi warned that attributing crimes to entire ethnic groups fuels division, hatred and mistrust among Nigerians.

“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,” he said.

He urged Nigerians to celebrate the country’s cultural diversity and avoid narratives that deepen ethnic tensions or serve political interests.

According to him, Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity, and citizens must focus on shared values of justice, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.

“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,” Obi said.

The former governor reiterated his vision of a nation where citizens are judged by their conduct rather than their tribe, religion or place of origin.

“A New Nigeria must emerge — one where no citizen is condemned because of tribe, religion or birthplace. We can cherish our cultural roots while standing united by justice, mutual respect and hope for a better future,” he added.