RismadarVoice Reporters
October 20, 2026
Former Anambra State Governor and presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has denied asking Nigerians living abroad to stop supporting their families, accusing his political opponents of misrepresenting his recent comments on financial assistance to relatives back home.
Obi made the clarification on Tuesday, October 20, following reactions to remarks he delivered during a town hall meeting with Nigerians in Manchester, United Kingdom.
The former governor explained that his message was intended to highlight the economic difficulties forcing many Nigerian households to depend on financial assistance from relatives overseas.
He maintained that his comments were not a criticism of diaspora remittances or the sacrifices Nigerians abroad make to support their loved ones.
According to Obi, financial contributions from Nigerians living overseas remain essential to millions of households, helping families meet expenses relating to education, healthcare, accommodation and food.
He expressed appreciation for the sacrifices made by Nigerians in the diaspora, describing their continued support as an important contribution to the welfare of families and communities.
However, Obi argued that Nigeria should develop an economy in which citizens can meet their basic needs through employment, affordable services and sustainable economic opportunities.
He said the country needed policies and leadership capable of reducing widespread dependence on financial assistance from abroad.
The clarification followed controversy surrounding his remarks in Manchester, where he encouraged Nigerians overseas to challenge the circumstances that leave their relatives continually seeking financial support.
Some commentators interpreted his statement as an appeal for Nigerians abroad to refuse requests for money from family members.
Obi rejected that interpretation, insisting that his central argument concerned the responsibility of government to create conditions that allow citizens to support themselves.
He also criticised unnamed political opponents for what he described as deliberate attempts to distort his position.
The former governor reiterated his support for improved job creation, accessible healthcare, quality education and broader economic opportunities as measures needed to strengthen household financial independence.
His comments have renewed discussions about the role of diaspora remittances in Nigeria’s economy and the challenges facing families who rely on overseas financial assistance.
Obi maintained that his objective was not to weaken family relationships but to promote a country where citizens would have greater opportunities to achieve financial stability without depending on relatives abroad.
