Peter Obi Condemns Ethnic Profiling, Says Crime Has No Tribe

Peter Obi has condemned ethnic profiling in Nigeria, insisting that criminality should never be linked to any tribe or ethnic group. The former presidential candidate urged Nigerians to reject divisive narratives, promote unity, and judge individuals by their character rather than their background.

Former Anambra State Governor and 2027 presidential hopeful, Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the growing trend of ethnic profiling in Nigeria, insisting that criminality should never be associated with any ethnic group.

In a statement shared via his official social media platform, Obi warned against the dangerous practice of judging entire communities based on the actions of a few criminal elements, describing such narratives as unfair, divisive, and harmful to national unity.

According to Obi, Nigeria’s diversity should be a source of strength rather than a tool for division. He argued that while ethnic groups across the country possess unique cultural identities, traditions, and contributions to national development, criminal acts remain the responsibility of individuals and not entire communities.

Crime Has No Tribe, The former Labor Party presidential candidate stressed that criminals should be identified and prosecuted based on their actions rather than their ethnic background.

“Crime has no ethnicity. A thief is a thief. A terrorist is a terrorist. A kidnapper is a kidnapper. They are criminals and should be treated as such,” Obi stated.

He noted that many Nigerians, regardless of their ethnic origin, have at various times experienced stereotyping and discrimination. Drawing from his personal experience as an Igbo man, Obi said he understands the pain of being judged solely because of one’s ethnic identity rather than one’s character and actions.

Calls for National Unity, Obi further expressed concern over what he described as increasing attempts to exploit ethnic and religious differences for political gain. He warned that such narratives threaten the country’s unity and distract citizens from pressing issues such as governance, economic development, insecurity, and job creation.

He urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to reject divisive rhetoric and focus on building a nation where citizens are judged by their integrity, competence, and contributions to society rather than their tribe, religion, or region of origin.

Referencing the ideals of civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr., Obi emphasized the importance of evaluating individuals based on their character and conduct rather than inherited identities.

Growing Concerns Over Ethnic Tensions

His remarks come amid growing concerns about ethnic stereotyping and identity-based politics in Nigeria. In recent years, social media and political discourse have increasingly featured narratives that blame entire ethnic groups for the actions of criminal gangs, bandits, kidnappers, and other violent actors.

Political analysts have repeatedly warned that such generalizations could deepen divisions in the country and undermine efforts to foster national cohesion. Obi’s latest comments align with his long-standing position that Nigeria’s challenges stem more from poor leadership and governance failures than from ethnic or religious differences.

A Call for a New Nigeria

Concluding his message, Obi called on Nigerians to embrace mutual respect, justice, and tolerance, insisting that a better Nigeria can only emerge when citizens reject prejudice and work together toward common national goals.

He maintained that no Nigerian should be condemned because of their tribe, religion, or place of birth, adding that the country’s future depends on unity, fairness, and collective responsibility.