The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate has clarified his “do not send money home” remarks directed at Nigerians living overseas, saying the comments had been misrepresented. In a statement published on his verified X account on Tuesday, Obi said remittances used by diaspora Nigerians to cover school costs, medical treatment, rent and household food expenses are vital and should not be dismissed. He said their patriotism and personal sacrifices merit deep respect. The former Anambra State governor said he had never urged Nigerians abroad to neglect relatives, but argued that Nigeria should not continue as a country in which millions rely on family members overseas for essential needs. “Although my media office has already provided a responsible clarification, I believe it is necessary to personally address the distortion of my message by political opponents. My remarks were twisted. I greatly value Nigerians in the diaspora who work hard and make major sacrifices for their families at home. Opponents may misrepresent what I said, but the position is straightforward: I am not telling Nigerians overseas to leave their families behind. I am calling for a Nigeria that no longer leaves its own citizens behind,” he said.
