The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has dismissed claims that his presidency would divide Nigeria, insisting that his leadership record reflects a commitment to national unity and inclusive governance.
Speaking during an interview on Sunday Politics on Channels Television, Obi responded to remarks by former Borno State Governor Ali Modu Sheriff, who questioned his ability to unite the country.
“I will unite Nigeria, and I know what it takes to unite Nigeria,” Obi said.
The former Anambra State governor cited several humanitarian visits across northern Nigeria as evidence of his commitment to national cohesion.
He recalled travelling to Borno State to condole with Sheriff after the killing of his brother during the early stages of the Boko Haram insurgency.
Obi also referenced visits to Borno following devastating floods, where he donated ₦50 million, met with the state governor and the Shehu of Borno, and visited internally displaced persons (IDP) camps.
According to him, he has visited communities affected by insecurity and natural disasters in Katsina, Kebbi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, Sokoto and Benue, adding that he had spent Christmas and New Year celebrations in IDP camps on some occasions.
He said his interventions in the North include the construction of boreholes, support for educational institutions and healthcare projects.
Obi disclosed that he provided a borehole for the Faculty of Agriculture at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, and funded projects in schools and hospitals across different parts of the country.
He further argued that few Nigerian politicians have travelled as extensively by road across the country, saying those experiences have given him a deeper understanding of Nigeria’s diversity.
Addressing concerns about divisions stemming from the Civil War, Obi said his administration would prioritise reconciliation and inclusive governance.
“A Peter Obi presidency will commence the healing and the unity that is required to stabilise and build a better Nigeria,” he said.
He added that while Nigeria must acknowledge its history, it should not allow past events to determine its future.
“We have a history, but we must not be trapped in it. It must not deprive us of tomorrow.”
Obi also rejected allegations that he had made divisive remarks against northern Nigerians, describing the claims as false.
He noted that some of his closest aides, including a former aide-de-camp from Kano, were Muslims. He added that during his tenure as governor of Anambra State, he sponsored Muslim pilgrims for Hajj and employed northerners in his household.
The NDC candidate further revealed that he currently supports Almajiri schools in Kano and Bauchi, as well as a School of Nursing in Bauchi.
Urging Nigerians to focus on national development, Obi said the country should prioritise tackling poverty, insecurity, education and healthcare instead of engaging in divisive politics.
Reaffirming his commitment to inclusive leadership, he said:
“I will never divide Nigeria. I will unite Nigeria. I will show love to every part of Nigeria and make sure things are done differently because I’m going to involve everybody.”
