By Harbidex

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has firmly rejected the notion that any Nigerian should be described as a “street urchin” or “low-class citizen,” stressing that his politics are built on empathy, inclusion, and respect for human dignity.

Obi expressed his disapproval via his official X.com (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday, responding to recent comments that disparaged his supporters using derogatory labels.

According to the 64-year-old businessman and former Anambra State governor, such remarks reveal a troubling contempt for ordinary Nigerians.

“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 stated.

He explained that his brand of politics has always been anchored on humanity, compassion, and inclusiveness, rather than elitism or class division. Obi emphasized that his political philosophy seeks to empower and uplift the average Nigerian, not to segregate or demean them.

“I have never and will never look down on anyone, except to lift them up. After all, we can only rise by lifting others,” he said.

“My involvement in politics has never been about associating with the so-called high and mighty, but about standing with ordinary Nigerians whose voices have been silenced and whose resources have been stolen by the same ‘big names’ who now parade themselves with titles and privileges.”

Obi reaffirmed his belief that every Nigerian holds value and dignity, dismissing any notion that citizens suffering from hardship should be looked down upon.

“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 being described by their leaders as people of no worth,” he added.

Reiterating his commitment to a leadership model grounded in compassion, Obi vowed to continue advocating for education, healthcare, and poverty reduction, insisting that true leadership must seek to uplift the people rather than mock them.

“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,” Obi said.

“True leadership is not about mocking the weak; it is about lifting them up.”

Earlier on Tuesday, it had reported that Obi urged the Lagos State Government to show compassion in its ongoing demolition exercise, reminding authorities that being legally correct is not the same as being morally right.

Also Read: Anambra Guber Poll: APGA Group Endorses Soludo, Woos Non-Indigenes Ahead of Election