The Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Peter Obi, has condemned what he described as the increasing tendency among some Nigerians to demean others, saying such behaviour reflects a disturbing social mindset.

Obi was reacting to recent comments allegedly describing some of his supporters as “street urchins” and “people of no value.”

In a statement on Tuesday, the former Anambra State governor described the remarks as “deeply unfortunate,” stressing that no Nigerian should be looked down upon because of their social or economic status.

“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,” he said.

Obi emphasised that his political journey has always been about identifying with ordinary Nigerians and working to uplift 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. My involvement in politics has never been about associating with the so-called high and mighty, but about standing with everyday Nigerians 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,” he stated.

The former governor insisted that every citizen has value and deserves respect, dignity, and equal opportunity.

“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 referred to by their leaders as being of no value — and as urchins,” Obi said.

He added that his commitment to Nigeria remains focused on improving lives through access to education, quality healthcare, and poverty reduction.

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