The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned the use of demeaning language against his supporters, emphasizing that no Nigerian deserves to be described as “street urchins” or worthless individuals.
Obi Denounces Class-Based Insults
In a statement shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) account titled “Humanity is Paramount in My Politics—No Street Urchins,” Obi expressed concern over what he called a growing and “unfortunate trend” of name-calling directed at his supporters, widely known as the Obidient movement.
“My Supporters Are Not Inferior Citizens”
Responding to claims that his followers are low-class Nigerians, the former Anambra governor said he found it heartbreaking that some people in modern-day Nigeria still choose to belittle others based on social or economic status.
“Recently, I’ve heard people describe those who support me as ‘street urchins’ and individuals of no worth,” Obi wrote. “It is saddening that we have reached a point where citizens degrade one another instead of uplifting each other.”
Politics Should Serve Humanity, Not Ego
Obi reaffirmed that he has never—and will never—look down on anyone, except to help them rise. He stressed that true leadership is rooted in service and compassion, not arrogance or class distinction.