Peter Obi condemns ethnic profiling, says crime has no tribe

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has cautioned against the growing trend of linking criminal activities to ethnic groups, describing such narratives as divisive and harmful to national unity.

In a post issued on his verified X handle on Monday, Obi said Nigerians should resist the temptation to judge entire communities by the actions of a few criminals, stressing that crime has no ethnic identity.

“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,” he said.

Obi noted that many Fulani people are currently facing similar prejudices because of the actions of criminal elements who do not represent their communities.

“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,” he added.

Drawing parallels with the struggle for civil rights in the United States, Obi recalled the message of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., who advocated judging individuals by their character rather than their background.

“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,” he said.

The former Anambra State Governor argued that while Nigeria’s ethnic groups are known for their unique cultures, skills, and contributions, criminality should never be associated with any tribe.

“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,” Obi stated.

He urged Nigerians to reject ethnic profiling and collective blame, warning that such practices fuel division and undermine efforts to build a more united country.

“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,” he said.

Obi also called on citizens to celebrate Nigeria’s diversity rather than allow ethnic stereotypes to be exploited for political purposes.

“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,” he said.

He further advocated a Nigeria where citizens are judged by their actions and character rather than their tribe, religion, or place of birth.

“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.

“A new Nigeria is within our reach,” he said.