I have what it takes to unite Nigeria, Peter Obi tells critics

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for Nigeria's Democratic Congress, has pushed back against suggestions that his leadership would exacerbate the nation's divisions. Appearing on Channels Television's Sunday Politics, Obi insisted his past actions and extensive engagement across Nigeria demonstrate a capacity to unite the country.

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I will unite Nigeria, and I know what it takes to unite Nigeria.

Responding to criticisms from former Borno State Governor Ali Modu Sheriff, Obi pointed to his humanitarian efforts as proof of his commitment to national unity. He recalled traveling to Borno to console Sheriff after his brother's death and later donating ₦50 million following severe flooding. Obi also detailed his visits to numerous northern states, including Katsina, Kebbi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, and Sokoto, as well as Benue State, to support affected communities and internally displaced persons.

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At the onset of this Boko Haram issue… his own brother was killed. I travelled to Borno State to console him. When people didn’t want to go there, I went to Borno State.

Obi further emphasized his support for infrastructure and educational initiatives, mentioning funding borehole projects in several northern communities and assisting Usmanu Danfodiyo University in Sokoto. He claimed his extensive travels, often by road, have given him a deep understanding of Nigerians' needs and a commitment to keeping the country together. He concluded by stating that a presidency under his leadership would focus on healing divisions and stabilizing Nigeria, urging citizens not to be bound by past grievances.

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I’ve been to the most troubled parts of the North… I’ve been to Benue up to four times, visiting the various affected communities… I’ve spent Christmas and New Year in IDP camps.