By George Omagbemi
Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general election, has urged Nigerians living in the United Kingdom to reconsider sending money to relatives and friends at home who seek financial assistance, arguing that continued support may cushion the effects of poor governance without addressing its underlying causes.
Obi made the remarks on Sunday, October 18, during a town hall meeting with Nigerian supporters in Manchester.
“You have people at home in Nigeria today who are begging you for money. Tell them no!” he said.
The former Anambra State governor argued that Nigerians should encourage their families to support leaders they believe can improve governance and manage public resources responsibly.
Although the headline circulating online suggests that Obi specifically asked Nigerians abroad to stop sending money until President Bola Tinubu leaves office, the reported quotation from the meeting focuses on rejecting requests for financial assistance and promoting political change. The available reports do not establish that he used the exact phrase “until Tinubu is out” in the quoted passage.
Obi also defended his record as governor, claiming that he saved substantial public funds during his tenure.
“I’m not saying I’m a saint, but I saved money. I’ve not seen one governor who has saved 10 per cent of what I saved. No governor has done it,” he said.
His comments have attracted criticism on social media, with some users arguing that financial assistance from relatives abroad often helps families meet essential needs, including food, healthcare and education.
The remarks have opened a wider debate about diaspora remittances, economic hardship and whether personal financial support should be linked to political choices ahead of the 2027 elections.
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