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I Never Asked Nigerians in Diaspora to Abandon Their Families — Peter Obi
Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi has dismissed criticisms over his remarks concerning Nigerians in the diaspora, insisting that his message was distorted by political opponents.
Obi, in a statement addressing the controversy, said he never asked Nigerians living abroad to abandon their loved ones but was advocating for a country where citizens would no longer depend on relatives overseas for basic survival.
He acknowledged the contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora, noting that their remittances help millions of families meet essential needs, including school fees, hospital bills, rent and feeding expenses.
According to him, the sacrifices and patriotism of Nigerians abroad deserve profound respect and appreciation.
“I never asked them to abandon their loved ones. My concern is that Nigeria should not remain a country where millions depend on relatives abroad for basic survival,” Obi said.
He stressed that Nigeria’s priority should be to build an economy that provides employment opportunities, affordable healthcare, quality education and other economic opportunities for its citizens.
The former Anambra State governor attributed the controversy surrounding his remarks to what he described as attempts by political opponents to distort his message.
Reaffirming his position, Obi said his advocacy was aimed at building a nation that takes responsibility for the welfare of its citizens rather than leaving families to depend on financial support from relatives living abroad.
“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.
He concluded by wishing Nigerians at home and abroad well, expressing hope for the country’s progress and prosperity.
“God bless Nigerians at home and abroad. God bless Nigeria,” Obi added.