As An Igbo Man, I Have Endured Stereotypes, Judgement – Obi Speaks On Tribal Stigma

Former Anambra Governor Peter Obi has called for an end to the practice of linking crime to ethnic groups, describing it as harmful and divisive.

In a message shared on his 𝕏 page, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate noted that media reports and public discussions that connect criminal acts to specific ethnic groups create unfair judgment and deepen division in the country.

Naija News reports that he said he has personally faced stereotypes as an Igbo man, where people are judged based on their ethnic background instead of their character.

According to him, this experience is not limited to one group, as many Nigerians have also been reduced to ethnic labels rather than being seen as individuals.

The former Labour Party presidential candidate also pointed out that many innocent Fulani people suffer similar treatment, as they are often unfairly associated with crimes committed by individuals they do not know or support.

Obi referenced global civil rights struggles, noting that injustice tied to identity has long caused tension in societies. He compared it to calls for people to be judged by their character rather than physical or ethnic identity.

He stressed that crime should not be linked to any tribe, saying criminals should be treated as individuals responsible for their actions and punished according to the law.

He wrote: “As an Igbo man, I have endured stereotypes, judgment, and labelling solely based on my ethnic origins. This is not an isolated Igbo experience. Most Nigerians have, at some point, been reduced to their ethnicity rather than recognised for their true character.

“I understand the pain of the ordinary Fulani man today, often unfairly judged by the actions of criminals he does not support, has never met, and who are not representative of his people.

“Even in America, such unjust labelling fueled the civil rights movement and prompted Martin Luther King Jr. to declare that people should be judged by the content of their character, not the colour of their skin.

“Every Nigerian ethnic group is known for its unique traditions, occupations, skills, and strengths. Crime, however, has no ethnicity. A thief is a thief. A terrorist is a terrorist. A kidnapper is a kidnapper. They are bad actors, not representatives of any people. They must be identified, arrested, and punished according to the law.

“We must decisively abandon the dangerous practice of blaming entire ethnic groups for the actions of a few criminals. It is unjust, it breeds hatred, and it damages our national unity.

“Let us proudly celebrate our diverse cultures, talents, and contributions, rather than falling prey to stereotypes and prejudices that politicians and divisive interests exploit for their gain.

“A new Nigeria must emerge, one where no citizen is condemned because of tribe, religion, or birthplace. We can cherish our cultural roots while standing united by justice, mutual respect, and hope for a better future. We are capable of this.”