The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress for the 2027 general elections, Peter Obi, has recanted his statement advising Nigerians abroad against sending money to relatives at home.

Mr Obi, during a town hall meeting with diaspora supporters in Manchester, United Kingdom, on Sunday, said, “You have people begging for home at home; tell them no. Tell them ‘Get up and let us vote somebody who has proven competence’.”

The political urged Nigerians abroad to encourage their relatives at home to vote for competent leaders with the capacity and competence to turn the country around.

However, the NDC chieftain, in a statement on Tuesday, said his statement was twisted.

“Even though my media office has issued a responsible clarification on the situation, I still find it necessary to add my voice to address the distortion of my message by political opponents.

“I deeply appreciate Nigerians in the diaspora who work tirelessly and make enormous sacrifices to support their families back home. Their remittances pay for school fees, hospital bills, rent, and feeding expenses. Their patriotism and sacrifices deserve our profound respect.

“I never asked them to abandon their loved ones. My concern is that Nigeria should not remain a country where millions depend on relatives abroad for basic survival,” Mr Obi stated.

According to the politician, Nigerians must build a nation that provides jobs, affordable healthcare, quality education and economic opportunities for its citizens.

Accusing opponents of twisting his statement, he added, “Political opponents may twist my message, but the truth remains clear: I am not asking Nigerians abroad to abandon their families.

Mr Obi advocated a country where Nigerians are well taken care of and get the attention they deserve.