Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has dismissed claims that he directed inflammatory statements toward the people of northern Nigeria. During an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, the former Anambra State governor dismissed these allegations as entirely fabricated.
Addressing the controversy, Obi emphasized that such accusations contradict his history of humanitarian work and regional engagement. He noted that he has consistently reached out to northern communities, especially during times of crisis. For instance, he visited Borno State early in the Boko Haram insurgency to offer condolences to former Governor Ali Modu Sheriff after a family tragedy. He also returned to the state to provide ₦50 million in aid following devastating floods, spending time at camps for displaced persons.
His track record of involvement extends to states like Katsina, Kebbi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, and Sokoto. He specifically highlighted his frequent visits to Benue, where he spent holidays within camps for the displaced. To further demonstrate his commitment to national unity, Obi pointed to his personal history, noting that his aide-de-camp was a Muslim from Kano. During his two terms as governor, he sponsored local Muslims for the Hajj pilgrimage and employed northern staff in his residence. Currently, he maintains support for educational institutions in Kano and Bauchi, including Almajiri schools and a nursing college.
