Peter Obi Replies Critics Who Call His Supporters ‘Street Urchins’
Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has condemned recent remarks by individuals who described his supporters as “street urchins” and “people of no value.”
Obi made the statement in a post shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Tuesday, stressing that humanity remains paramount in his politics and that no Nigerian should ever be looked down upon.
“I have heard a few people say that those who follow me are low-class Nigerians, and some have even gone as far as calling them ‘street urchins’ and people of no value. It is deeply unfortunate that in today’s Nigeria, citizens now look down on fellow citizens in such a degrading manner,” Obi wrote.
The former Anambra State Governor stated that his political philosophy is rooted in lifting people up, not looking down on them, adding that he associates with ordinary Nigerians whose voices have been suppressed and whose resources have been stolen by the same elite who now mock the masses.
“My involvement in politics has never been about associating with the so-called high and mighty, but about standing with the 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,” he said.
Obi emphasized that no Nigerian is of no value, describing it as a reflection of moral decay when leaders label citizens as worthless because of their economic struggles.
“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,” he said.
Concluding his statement, the LP flag bearer said true leadership is not about mocking the weak but lifting them up, reaffirming that “A New Nigeria is POssible.”
