I have endured stereotyped judgement just like the Fulani people - PETER OBI

Monday, June 8, 2026 - The 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Mr Peter Obi, has said he has personally experienced stereotypes, judgment and labelling because of his Igbo ethnic background.

Obi made the statement in a post on X while condemning the growing tendency to associate crime with particular ethnic groups.

He said the experience was not unique to the Igbo people, noting that many Nigerians have at one time or another been judged based on their ethnicity rather than their individual character.

The former Anambra State governor said he understands the challenges faced by ordinary Fulani people who are often unfairly blamed for crimes committed by individuals they do not know or support.

According to him, criminals should be identified by their actions and not by their ethnic origin, stressing that “a thief is a thief, a terrorist is a terrorist, and a kidnapper is a kidnapper.”

Drawing parallels with the civil rights movement in the United States, Obi referenced Martin Luther King Jr. and his call for people to be judged by the content of their character rather than their race. He argued that every ethnic group in Nigeria is known for its unique culture, skills and contributions, while crime has no ethnic identity.

Obi urged Nigerians to reject the practice of blaming entire ethnic groups for the actions of a few individuals, warning that such attitudes fuel hatred and undermine national unity.

He called for greater appreciation of the country’s cultural diversity and renewed commitment to justice, mutual respect and national cohesion.

He wrote, “Media Framing of Crime Along Ethnic Lines: Divisive.

“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.

“Every Nigerian ethnic group is known for its unique traditions, occupations, skills, and strengths. 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.”