I never asked Nigerians in the diaspora to abandon their loved ones - Peter Obi

NDC Presidential candidate Peter Obi has denied claims that he asked Nigerians in the diaspora to abandon their loved ones back in Nigeria and stop sending them money.

Speaking at a town hall meeting in the UK on Saturday, October 18, Obi urged Nigerians in the United Kingdom to stop giving financial handouts to relatives seeking money at home, advising them instead to push their families to vote for productive leaders.

Obi lamented Nigeria's prevailing economic hardship and argued that continuous financial assistance only cushions the effects of poor governance without addressing the root cause.

Members of the opposition berated him for his statement, accusing him of discouraging Nigerians from helping their loved ones back home just because of his political ambition.

Reacting to the backlash, Obi, in a statement released on social media this morning, said his comment was misconstrued. He stated that his concern is that Nigeria should not remain a country where millions depend on relatives abroad for basic survival needs

He wrote;

‘’MY MESSAGE HAS BEEN TWISTED

 

Even though my media office has issued a responsible clarification on the situation, I still find it necessary to add my voice to address the distortion of my message by political opponents.

 

I deeply appreciate Nigerians in the diaspora who work tirelessly and make enormous sacrifices to support their families back home. Their remittances pay for school fees, hospital bills, rent, and feeding expenses. Their patriotism and sacrifices deserve our profound respect.

 

I never asked them to abandon their loved ones. My concern is that Nigeria should not remain a country where millions depend on relatives abroad for basic survival.

 

Our goal must be to build a nation that provides jobs, affordable healthcare, quality education, and economic opportunities for its citizens.

 

Political opponents may twist my message, but the truth remains clear: I am not asking Nigerians abroad to abandon their families. I am advocating for a Nigeria that will no longer abandon its own people.

 

God bless Nigerians at home and abroad. God bless Nigeria.''