By Abiola Olawale
Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, has condemned the use of derogatory labels against his supporters, stressing that no Nigerian should ever be described as a “street urchin.”
In a statement posted on his official X handle, the former Anambra State governor decried what he called a disturbing trend of class-based insults aimed at political supporters, insisting that every citizen, regardless of socioeconomic status, deserves respect and dignity.
“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. It is deeply unfortunate that in today’s Nigeria, citizens now look down on fellow citizens in such a degrading manner,” Obi said.
He emphasised that his politics has always been rooted in compassion and inclusivity rather than elitism. According to him, his mission has never been about aligning with the so-called high and mighty but about standing with ordinary Nigerians whose voices are often silenced.
“I have never and will never look down on anyone, except to lift them. After all, we can only rise by lifting others. My involvement in politics has never been about associating with the so-called big names who now parade themselves with all sorts of titles. It has always been about the ordinary Nigerians whose resources have been stolen,” he stated.
Obi added that mocking struggling citizens, who already bear the brunt of economic hardship, is an indictment of the nation’s leadership.
“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 demeaned by those who should protect them,” he said.
Reaffirming his commitment to inclusive governance, Obi declared: “Every Nigerian deserves dignity, opportunity, and care. That is why I will continue to play 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.”
