Former presidential candidate says criminality should never be linked to ethnicity, religion, or tribe.
Peter Obi has spoken against ethnic profiling in Nigeria, saying he understands the challenges faced by many Fulani people who are often judged because of the actions of criminal elements.
In a statement shared on Monday, Obi said he had personally experienced stereotypes and prejudice as an Igbo man and believes many Nigerians have, at different times, been judged based on their ethnic identity rather than their character.
The former Anambra State governor noted that ordinary Fulani citizens are frequently subjected to unfair assumptions because of crimes committed by individuals who do not represent the wider ethnic group.
According to him, criminal acts should be treated as the responsibility of individuals rather than entire communities.
Obi stressed that kidnapping, terrorism, and other crimes have no ethnic identity and called for offenders to be identified, arrested, and prosecuted according to the law.
The remarks form part of a broader appeal for national unity and a rejection of stereotypes that deepen divisions among Nigerians.
He maintained that people should be judged by their character and actions rather than their tribe, religion, or place of birth.