Peter Obi Condemns Remarks Labeling His Supporters as ‘Street Urchins’: ‘No Nigerian Is Without Value’

The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has condemned recent remarks that described some of his supporters as “street urchins” and “people of no value,” saying such comments are degrading and reflect a disturbing attitude toward ordinary Nigerians.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the former Anambra State Governor said it was “deeply unfortunate” that some individuals now look down on fellow citizens simply because of their social or economic status.

“Lately, I have heard a few people say that those who follow Peter Obi are low-class Nigerians, and some have even gone as far as calling them ‘street urchins’ and people of no value,” Obi stated.
“It is deeply unfortunate that in today’s Nigeria, citizens now look down on fellow citizens in such a degrading manner.”

Obi stressed that his political philosophy has always been about identifying with and uplifting ordinary Nigerians, not seeking validation from the elite.

“I have never and will never look down on anyone, except to lift them up. After all, we can only rise by lifting others.
My involvement in politics has never been about associating with the so-called high and mighty, but about standing with ordinary Nigerians whose voices have been silenced and whose resources have been stolen by the same ‘big names’ who now parade themselves with all sorts of titles and names.”

The Labour Party flagbearer maintained that every Nigerian has value and criticized the growing trend of leaders speaking condescendingly about struggling citizens.

“No Nigerian is of no value. No Nigerian is a street urchin. It speaks volumes about the state of our nation that everyday Nigerians, battered by poverty and hardship, are now referred to by their leaders as being of no value — and as urchins,” he said.

Obi reaffirmed his commitment to promoting dignity, opportunity, and care for all Nigerians, regardless of their background or social class.

“Every Nigerian deserves dignity, opportunity, and care. That is why I will continue to do my part to ensure that ordinary Nigerians enjoy a better life — one built on access to education, quality healthcare, and genuine efforts to lift them out of poverty. True leadership is not about mocking the weak; it is about lifting them up,” he concluded.