‘It never happened’ — Obi denies making divisive remarks about northerners
Peter Obi Denies Allegations of Divisive Remarks Towards Northern Nigerians
Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has refuted recent allegations claiming he made divisive statements regarding northern Nigerians. Obi characterized these claims as baseless and inconsistent with his established history of engagement and humanitarian efforts throughout the region.
During an interview on Sunday Politics aired by Channels Television, Obi also dismissed concerns that his presidency would exacerbate existing divisions within the country.
“That’s a lie. It never happened,” he stated in response to the allegations.
Obi emphasized his long-standing connections with northern communities, recalling numerous visits to states grappling with insecurity and humanitarian challenges. He specifically mentioned his trip to Borno State during the early phases of the Boko Haram insurgency, where he offered condolences to former Governor Ali Modu Sheriff following the murder of Sheriff’s brother.
“At the onset of this Boko Haram issue, his brother was killed. I travelled to Borno State to console him. When people didn’t want to go there, I went to Borno State,” Obi explained.
He also mentioned returning to Borno after severe flooding, where he contributed ₦50 million and met with the state governor as well as the Shehu of Borno. Additionally, he visited internally displaced persons (IDP) camps.
Obi reported that his humanitarian efforts have spanned several northern states, including Katsina, Kebbi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, and Sokoto. “I’ve been to the most troubled parts of the North… I’ve been to Benue up to four times, visiting the various affected communities… I’ve spent Christmas and New Year in IDP camps,” he added.
Moreover, Obi cited his personal and professional relationships as evidence of his dedication to national unity. He noted that his aide de camp was from Kano and was Muslim, underlining a commitment to inclusivity.
He also highlighted his tenure as governor of Anambra State, where he employed northern cooks and sponsored Muslim pilgrims from the state to Mecca. “As governor, I was paying for Muslims living in Anambra to go to Hajj,” Obi remarked.
Currently, he supports Almajiri schools in Kano and Bauchi, as well as a School of Nursing in Bauchi, which he described as part of his broader commitment to education and humanitarian development across Nigeria.
