Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in Nigeria’s 2023 general election, has addressed the growing tribal and religious divisions among Nigerians, especially within the diaspora. His comments follow recent controversy surrounding a Nigerian woman in Canada who made disparaging remarks about her compatriots.
“I have been met with a flood of reactions,” Obi said, referring to the backlash he faced after criticizing the woman’s comments. He highlighted that some defended her actions as a response to previous negative remarks targeting Nigerians of Igbo ethnicity. Obi denounced these earlier comments as well, asserting that such divisive behavior is unacceptable.
He reiterated his opposition to tribal and religious divisions, emphasizing, “Tribal tension and religious discord must not be allowed to fester among us.” Obi called for unity and a collective effort to tackle Nigeria’s pressing issues, including insecurity, the high cost of living, and leadership failures.
The former governor of Anambra State urged all Nigerians, both domestically and abroad, to reject divisive rhetoric and work towards a unified and peaceful nation. “With faith in our country, let us embrace unity and peace, paving the way for genuine progress, growth, and development,” he urged.
Concluding his statement, Obi rallied for a “New Nigeria” built on unity and peace, affirming, “It is possible.”
