Rufai Oseni Challenges Peter Obi on Diaspora Comments

Rufai Oseni, an Arise News anchor, confronted Peter Obi, a presidential hopeful for the NDC 2027, over remarks made during a town hall meeting in Manchester, United Kingdom, on October 18, 2026. Obi suggested that Nigerians abroad should refuse requests for financial support from relatives in Nigeria, advocating instead for political engagement to elect competent leaders.

This statement sparked backlash, with critics arguing it was insensitive given the reliance of many Nigerian families on remittances for essential needs. On October 20, 2026, during a panel discussion on The Morning Show on Arise TV, Oseni defended the diaspora, stating that their remittances exceed $20 billion annually and are vital for Nigeria's economy.

He emphasized that politicians should focus on securing voting rights for Nigerians abroad rather than discouraging their financial support. In response, Obi clarified that his comments were taken out of context and expressed respect for the contributions of Nigerians living overseas.