Humanity Above Politics: Peter Obi Rejects ‘Street Urchin’ Label on Supporters
Peter Obi: “No Nigerian is of no value. My politics is about lifting people up, not looking down on them.”
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has strongly condemned the derogatory labeling of his supporters known as Obidients—as “low-class” or “street urchins,” describing such remarks as an insult to the dignity of ordinary Nigerians.
In a statement on Wednesday, Obi said humanity remains the foundation of his politics, stressing that his goal has always been to uplift citizens rather than demean them.
“Humanity is paramount in my politics. No street urchins. I have never and will never look down on anyone, except to lift them up,” Obi declared.
The former Anambra State governor was reacting to comments made by Kenneth Okonkwo, a former Labour Party chieftain, who in a viral video accused him of attracting “classless street urchins” and “ill-bred” followers.
Obi described the remarks as “deeply unfortunate” and a reflection of the country’s worsening social inequality, where leaders often ridicule the poor instead of addressing their struggles.
“No Nigerian is of no value. No Nigerian is a street urchin,” he said. “It speaks volumes about the state of our nation that everyday Nigerians are now battered by poverty and hardship to the point their leaders refer to them as of no value.”
He noted that his political mission has always been about standing with ordinary Nigerians, not aligning with the privileged elite.
“My involvement in politics has never been about associating with the so-called high and mighty, but about standing with those 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,” Obi said.
Obi emphasized that true leadership is about empathy and empowerment, not arrogance or mockery. He reiterated his commitment to inclusive governance, focusing on education, healthcare, and economic opportunities that restore dignity to every Nigerian.
“Every Nigerian deserves dignity, opportunity, and care. True leadership is not about mocking the weak—it’s about lifting them up,” he concluded.
His statement has since sparked wide discussions across social media, with many Nigerians praising Obi’s remarks as a timely call for unity, respect, and humanity in national politics.