Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate for the 2023 elections, has criticized a threat made by a Canadian woman, Amaka Sunnberger, against Nigerians of Yoruba and Benin heritage.
In a video clip that went viral on X.com on Tuesday, the woman’s voice was heard shouting anti-Yoruba and Benin remarks during a virtual conference on TikTok.
She spoke mostly in Pidgin English and threatened to poison the Yoruba and Benin people.
Following the development, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, exposed the woman’s identify, and the House of Representatives demanded her immediate arrest.
However, in a series of postings on his X account on Friday morning, Obi condemned the comments as divisive, claiming that such behavior has no place in society.
The former governor of Anambra State has urged Nigerians to unify and focus on addressing the country’s difficulties rather than allowing tribalism to divide them.
He wrote, “I completely condemn the alleged cruel statement and acts ascribed to a Nigerian woman living in Canada against other Nigerians of various ethnicities. Such divisive statements or actions have no place in our society.
“As Nigerians, we should unite and focus on addressing our shared challenges rather than allowing tribalism and hate to tear us apart. I have consistently stood against the polarisation of our country along tribal, religious or political lines.
“What does a nation achieve through tribal or religious bigotry? Does it contribute positively to development by fixing our numerous health and education challenges and pulling people out of poverty? Does it reduce the price of bread, rice, garri, or yam on the market?
“Does it improve our transportation system or enhance the electricity supply? Does it ensure good governance? The answer is a resounding NO!! Our priority should be to move Nigeria forward, regardless of tribe or religion.”
Obi urged Nigerians to reject tribalism and religious divisions in order to build a fresh, successful, and united nation.
He went on to say, “We, as Nigerians, must live in peace and love, and ensure that we appoint leaders with integrity, competence, consistency, capacity, character, and compassion, in order to solve our current issues and take the country ahead in the correct direction.
“Let us focus on what is truly important: creating a prosperous, united, and equitable Nigeria for all.” We must reject tribalism and religious divisions and embrace our common humanity, working together to create a new Nigeria that is feasible!”
