Nigeria: 'It Never Happened' - - Obi Denies Making Divisive Remarks About Northerners

What the report says

AllAfrica, carrying a Vanguard report from Lagos dated 27 July 2026, reported that Peter Obi, identified as the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has rejected claims that he made divisive comments about northern Nigerians. Obi addressed the issue during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, saying the allegation was untrue and denying that a presidency led by him would worsen Nigeria’s regional divisions.

According to Vanguard, the former Anambra State governor pointed to his past interactions with northern communities as evidence of his position. He cited visits to Borno State during the early phase of the Boko Haram insurgency, including a trip to console former Governor Ali Modu Sheriff after the killing of Sheriff’s brother. Obi also referred to a later visit following severe flooding in Borno, where he said he donated ₦50 million, met state and traditional leaders, and visited internally displaced persons’ camps.

The report said Obi listed several northern states where he has undertaken humanitarian or outreach activities, including Katsina, Kebbi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, Sokoto and Benue. He also mentioned personal and administrative ties, saying he had worked with northerners and Muslims, supported Hajj participation for Muslims living in Anambra while governor, and currently assists Almajiri schools in Kano and Bauchi as well as a nursing school in Bauchi.

The denial matters because identity, religion and regional balance are sensitive issues in Nigerian national politics. Vanguard’s report presents Obi’s response as an effort to counter allegations that could affect perceptions of his commitment to national unity; it does not provide the original source or wording of the alleged remarks.