Peter Obi: I Don’t Hate Northerners

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 election, Peter Obi, has dismissed allegations that he harbours prejudice against Northern Nigerians, insisting that he has maintained strong relationships with people and communities across the region through years of humanitarian and public service.

According to Ireporter Online, Obi made the clarification during an interview on Channels Television, where he rejected claims that his political views or statements were divisive. He maintained that his record of engagement in northern Nigeria demonstrates his commitment to national unity and inclusive leadership.

The former Anambra State governor recounted visiting Borno State during the early stages of the Boko Haram insurgency to sympathise with former Governor Ali Modu Sheriff following the killing of his brother. He noted that the visit took place at a time when many people were reluctant to travel to the region because of the security situation.

Obi also recalled returning to Borno after devastating floods, where he donated ₦50 million, met with the state governor and the Shehu of Borno, and visited internally displaced persons (IDP) camps to support affected residents.

He stated that his humanitarian interventions have taken him to several northern states, including Borno, Katsina, Kebbi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, Sokoto and Benue, adding that he had spent festive periods in IDP camps while providing assistance to displaced communities.

Highlighting his record as governor of Anambra State, Obi revealed that his Aide-de-Camp (ADC) was a Muslim from Kano and noted that his administration sponsored Muslim faithful residing in the state on annual Hajj pilgrimages throughout his eight years in office.

The NDC flagbearer further disclosed that his government employed northerners in key domestic roles and said he continues to support educational initiatives in the North, including Almajiri schools and a School of Nursing in Bauchi State.

Obi maintained that his actions over the years reflect his belief in national unity, stressing that his commitment has always been to serve Nigerians irrespective of ethnicity, religion or regional background.