2JR9PMD Peter Obi, Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, speaks during an interview with Reuters at his residence in Lagos, Nigeria August 18, 2022. REUTERS/Temilade Adelaja
The presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in the 2023 general elections, Mr. Peter Obi, has condemned the growing trend of classist remarks targeted at his supporters and ordinary Nigerians, describing such statements as “deeply unfortunate” and contrary to the ideals of nation-building.
In a message shared on his social media platforms on Wednesday, Obi reacted to comments by some individuals who labeled his supporters popularly known as “Obidients” as “street urchins” and people of no value.
“Lately, I have heard a few people say that those who follow Peter Obi are low-class Nigerians, and some have even gone as far as calling them ‘street urchins’ and people of no value. It is deeply unfortunate that in today’s Nigeria, citizens now look down on fellow citizens in such a degrading manner,” Obi stated.
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The former Anambra State governor said his political philosophy has always been guided by humanity, equality, and service to the common good, rather than aligning with the privileged or elite class.
“I have never and will never look down on anyone, except to lift them up. After all, we can only rise by lifting others. My involvement in politics has never been about associating with the so-called high and mighty, but about standing with ordinary Nigerians whose voices have been silenced and whose resources have been stolen by the same ‘big names’ who now parade themselves with all sorts of titles,” he said.
Obi emphasized that every Nigerian, regardless of social or economic status, deserves dignity, opportunity, and care, stressing that poverty or hardship should never define a person’s worth.
“No Nigerian is of no value. No Nigerian is a street urchin. It speaks volumes about the state of our nation that everyday Nigerians, battered by poverty and hardship, are now referred to as of no value,” he added.
Reiterating his commitment to the welfare of the masses, Obi said his political journey is driven by a vision to ensure that all citizens have access to quality education, healthcare, and opportunities that promote self-reliance and economic growth.
“True leadership is not about mocking the weak; it is about lifting them up,” he said, concluding his message with his signature phrase, “A New Nigeria is POssible.”
