Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, has clarified recent remarks in which he urged Nigerians living in the United Kingdom to resist constant financial requests from home.
Obi accused his political opponents of deliberately misrepresenting his comments, emphasizing that he never advocated for abandoning family members in Nigeria.
According to Obi, his main concern is the country’s economic situation, which forces millions of Nigerians to rely on relatives abroad for basic needs. In a post on his X account on Tuesday, the former Anambra State governor noted that despite a previous clarification by his media team, his words had been twisted for political gain.
“My media office has responsibly clarified the situation, but I feel compelled to personally address the misrepresentation of my message by political opponents,” Obi wrote.
He expressed deep appreciation for the sacrifices made by Nigerians in the diaspora, whose remittances cover school fees, medical expenses, rent, and daily living costs, stating, “Their patriotism and sacrifices deserve our profound respect.”
Obi reiterated that his remarks were never intended to discourage support for families, but rather to highlight the urgent need for economic reforms in Nigeria. “I never asked anyone to abandon their loved ones. My concern is that Nigeria should not continue as a country where millions depend on relatives abroad for survival,” he said.
He called for the creation of an environment where Nigerians can provide for themselves and their families without relying on support from overseas. “Our goal must be to build a nation that offers jobs, affordable healthcare, quality education, and economic opportunities for all,” Obi added.
Restating his position, Obi said, “Political opponents may twist my message, but the truth remains clear: I am not asking Nigerians abroad to abandon their families. I am advocating for a Nigeria that will no longer abandon its own people.”
He concluded his message with a blessing for Nigerians at home and abroad: “God bless Nigerians at home and abroad. God bless Nigeria.”
Obi’s clarification follows his remarks at a town hall meeting with Nigerians in Manchester, United Kingdom, where he advised those in the diaspora to be discerning about financial requests from home. According to PUNCH Online, Obi told the audience that Nigerians abroad should not feel obligated to meet every financial demand, emphasizing the need for leadership that enables citizens to be self-reliant. “You have people at home in Nigeria today who are begging you for money. Tell them no!” he stated.
His comments sparked debate, with some interpreting them as a call for Nigerians abroad to cease supporting their families financially.
