KEY POINTS

• Obi rejects Kenneth Okonkwo’s “street urchins” remarks.
• Says every Nigerian deserves dignity and respect.
• Calls for further inclusive politics that uplifts the poor.

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has rejected remarks describing his supporters as “street urchins,” saying his politics is rooted in humanity and inclusion, not elitism.

Obi’s response on Wednesday followed a viral video by Kenneth Okonkwo, a former Labour Party chieftain, who accused the ex-governor of “attracting classless street urchins” and failing to control his followers online.

Obi says no Nigerian is of no value

In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Obi called the comments “deeply unfortunate,” adding that it was wrong for any citizen to demean others based on social or economic status.

“No Nigerian is of no value. No Nigerian is a street urchin,” he said. “Humanity is paramount in my politics. Moreover I have never and will never look down on anyone, except to lift them up.”

Politics about ordinary Nigerians, not the elite

Obi said his political movement has always been about ordinary citizens whose voices have been silenced by those in power. He also dismissed elitist attitudes as a reflection of Nigeria’s growing inequality.

“My politics has never been about associating with the so-called high and mighty,” he said. “It is about standing with ordinary Nigerians whose resources have been stolen by the same ‘big names’ parading titles today.”

Calls for leadership that uplifts the weak

Furthermore reaffirming his commitment to inclusive governance, Obi said true leadership means ensuring every Nigerian has access to education, healthcare, and opportunity.

“Leadership is not about mocking the weak,” he also said. “It is about lifting them up.”