Presidential candidate Peter Obi has said his address to Nigerians in the Diaspora has been twisted to suggest he advised them not to send money to relatives in the country until they elect a credible leader.

Obi had said, "You have people at home who are begging you for money. Tell them no, let's put somebody who has proven... I said I'm not a saint, but at least I have said something."

Reacting to the backlash that trailed his statement, Obi said his words were twisted because he never asked Diasporans to abandon their loved ones in Nigeria.

He said that despite opponents twisting his words, his message of truth remains clear.

He said, "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.

"Our goal must be to build a nation that provides jobs, affordable healthcare, quality education, and economic opportunities for its citizens.

"Political opponents may twist my message, but the truth remains clear: I am not asking Nigerians abroad to abandon their families. I am advocating for a Nigeria that will no longer abandon its own people.

"God bless Nigerians at home and abroad. God bless Nigeria. -PO"

ASA