Peter Obi, presidential aspirant of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has clarified his recent remarks urging Nigerians in the diaspora to reconsider sending money to relatives at home, insisting that he never asked them to abandon their families.
Obi, in a statement published on his official X handle, said his message had been distorted by political opponents, despite an earlier clarification issued by his media office.
“My message has been twisted,” he said, explaining that his concern was not with financial support from Nigerians abroad but with the country's growing dependence on remittances to meet basic needs.
The former Anambra State governor praised Nigerians living abroad for their contributions to the welfare of their families, noting that money sent home helps cover essential expenses, including school fees, hospital bills, rent and food.
“I deeply appreciate Nigerians in the diaspora who work tirelessly and make enormous sacrifices to support their families back home,” Obi said. “Their remittances pay for school fees, hospital bills, rent, and feeding expenses. Their patriotism and sacrifices deserve our profound respect.”
He stressed that his earlier comments were not intended to discourage family support but to draw attention to the economic conditions forcing millions of Nigerians to depend on relatives abroad for survival.
“I never asked them to abandon their loved ones,” he stated.
According to Obi, Nigeria must work towards an economy that enables citizens to meet their basic needs through employment and access to essential services rather than depend on financial assistance from family members living overseas.
“Our goal must be to build a nation that provides jobs, affordable healthcare, quality education, and economic opportunities for its citizens,” he said.
Obi also accused political opponents of misrepresenting his message, maintaining that his position was focused on the need for better governance and a country that can adequately provide for its people.
“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,” he said.
The clarification follows Obi's remarks at a town hall meeting with Nigerians in Manchester, United Kingdom, where he urged diaspora supporters to tell relatives seeking money that they should instead support leaders capable of improving the country's economic situation.
His comments generated controversy, with some interpretations suggesting that he was asking Nigerians abroad to stop providing financial assistance to their families.
In his latest statement, Obi reiterated his appreciation for Nigerians at home and abroad, while emphasising the need to address the economic challenges that make financial support from overseas necessary for many households.
He concluded his message with a prayer for the country and its citizens, saying, “God bless Nigerians at home and abroad. God bless Nigeria.”
