National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential flagbearer, Peter Obi, has urged Nigerian youths to resist attempts to divide the country along ethnic and religious lines, warning that such tactics are often used by politicians who lack ideas, vision, and performance records.
Obi made the remarks in a statement posted on his X account amid growing social media criticism directed at Pastor Enoch Adeboye over the worsening insecurity situation across Nigeria.
The controversy erupted after a photograph circulated online allegedly showing Adeboye participating in a protest against the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan. Critics argued that the respected cleric should similarly speak out or lead demonstrations against the current government.
However, the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) dismissed the claim, explaining that the image was taken during a peaceful prayer walk organised during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari and had no connection to any political protest.
Reacting to the debate, Obi said the 2023 general election, particularly in Lagos State, demonstrated how important conversations about governance and development can easily be overshadowed by ethnic and identity politics.
According to him, politicians who struggle to compete on competence and ideas often exploit religious and ethnic differences to manipulate citizens.
“Throughout history, whenever politicians find it difficult to compete on ideas, performance, character, or vision, some resort to exploiting the fault lines of ethnicity, religion, and identity. Their calculation is simple: a divided people are easier to manipulate than a united people,” Obi stated.
He warned that many Nigerians unknowingly participate in campaigns designed to create division without understanding the broader political objectives behind them.
Defending Adeboye, Obi described the 84-year-old cleric as one of Nigeria’s most respected spiritual leaders whose teachings have consistently focused on peace, prayer, reconciliation, and national unity.
He argued that it would be unfair for younger Nigerians to shift responsibilities that belong to them onto the elderly religious leader.
“Pastor Enoch Adeboye remains one of the foremost fathers of faith in our nation. Even when faced with provocation, his response has always reflected humility, wisdom, restraint, and grace,” Obi said.
The former governor of Anambra State stressed that the responsibility of building a better Nigeria rests primarily with the younger generation, urging them to lead conversations on reforms and drive the change the country urgently needs.
He also encouraged Nigerians to verify information before sharing it, question suspicious narratives, and reject attempts to manipulate public opinion through ethnic or religious sentiments.
“The Nigeria of our dreams can only be built by citizens who refuse to be divided, who choose unity over hatred, and who place our collective future above narrow interests,” Obi added.
The statement comes amid heightened political debates ahead of the 2027 elections, with growing concerns over misinformation, identity politics, and the role of influential public figures in shaping national discourse.
