Peter Obi started ‘deporting’ Nigerians in 2011 – Presidency

The Presidency on Tuesday hit back at Peter Obi, accusing the former Anambra state governor that he started ‘deporting’ Nigerians in 2011.

Obi on Monday condemned the recent reports of the deportation of citizens mostly of Osun State origin by Lagos State authorities.

The Labour Party (LP) candidate for the 2023 presidential election said this is not merely a concern for Osun State but for all Nigerians who uphold the principles of unity, fairness, and justice.

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Presidential aide, Bayo Onanuga, reacting accused Obi of starting the trend of ‘deporting’ Nigerians 13 years ago.

“Peter Obi has displayed his incurable hypocrisy again over the decision of Lagos State to send some Osun citizens back home,” Onanuga posted on X.

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“He actually began the ‘deportation’ of citizens in 2011, which Governor Fashola copied in August 2013 by deporting some destitutes from Anambra back home.

“Obi not only criticised Fashola, he doubled down by writing a protest letter to then President Goodluck Jonathan.

“Some 11 years after, the deporter -in-chief is playing hypocrite again.”

Obi criticizing the Lagos state authorities for their reported deportation of Osun citizens said he finds the action very distasteful because of the far-reaching effects it will have on Nigeria’s cohesion and development.

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The LP chieftain said as a pan-Nigerian advocate, he vehemently opposes any form of discrimination, injustice or violation of the citizens’ rights.

He added that every Nigerian, irrespective of their state of origin or place of residence deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.

“It is our collective duty to uphold the values of unity, fairness and justice and to stand against any form of discrimination or injustice,” he said.

“Our constitution guarantees every Nigerian citizen the right to reside and find livelihood in any and every part of the federation.”