The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has advised Nigerians residing in the United Kingdom to stop sending money to people who seek financial help at home.

Obi also advised them to urge their relatives to vote for productive leaders.

He made the remarks at a town hall meeting with diaspora supporters in Manchester, United Kingdom, on Sunday.

He stressed that Nigeria’s prevailing economic hardship resulted from bad leadership, arguing that continuous financial assistance only cushions the effects of poor governance without addressing the root causes.

“You have people at home in Nigeria today who are begging you for money. Tell them no!” he said.

The former Anambra State governor insisted that his record in public office distinguished him from other governors, claiming none of them matched his achievements in saving public funds.

“I’m not saying I’m a saint, but I saved money. I’ve not seen one governor who has saved 10 per cent of what I saved. No governor has done it.

“Let’s start with this one that is less corrupt. That’s how other countries change.”

He maintained that his conversations with the people reinforced the need for collective responsibility, stressing that building a new Nigeria would require citizens to take an active role in addressing challenges facing the country.

Obi also urged Nigerians to take the 2027 election seriously, describing the contest as a critical moment for the nation.