Former presidential candidate and Labour Party flagbearer, Peter Obi, has cautioned Nigerian youths against being drawn into ethnic and religious divisions, warning that such narratives are often exploited by politicians to weaken national unity.
Obi made the remarks in a post shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account on Thursday, amid growing social media criticism directed at the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, over comments and expectations surrounding the country’s worsening insecurity.
Social media controversy over Adeboye image
The debate was triggered by a viral photograph allegedly showing Pastor Adeboye holding a placard during a protest against former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.
Many online users questioned why the cleric had not taken a similar public stance against current security challenges.
However, the RCCG has since dismissed the claim, clarifying that the image was taken during a peaceful walk organised under the administration of the late President Muhammadu Buhari and was not linked to any political protest.
Obi warns against manipulation through identity politics
Reacting to the controversy, Obi said the 2023 general elections—particularly in Lagos State—demonstrated how public conversations can easily be diverted from governance issues into ethnic and identity-based disputes.
He argued that politicians who struggle to compete on ideas and performance often resort to exploiting societal fault lines.
“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,” Obi said.
He added that such strategies are designed to divide citizens, making them easier to influence and manipulate.
Obi also warned that many Nigerians unknowingly participate in spreading such narratives without understanding the broader intent behind them.
Defence of Pastor Adeboye
The former Anambra State governor defended Pastor Adeboye, describing him as a respected spiritual leader who has consistently preached peace, unity, and reconciliation.
According to him, it would be unfair to place expectations of political activism on the cleric, given his age and long-standing role in promoting moral values.
“Pastor Enoch Adeboye remains one of the foremost fathers of faith in our nation… his response has always reflected humility, restraint, wisdom, and grace,” he stated.
Obi added that the responsibility for driving national change rests primarily on younger Nigerians, whom he urged to lead constructive conversations and reforms.
Call for unity and critical thinking
Obi further encouraged Nigerians to verify information before sharing it and to resist narratives aimed at division.
He stressed that Nigeria’s future depends on citizens choosing unity over hatred and prioritising collective progress over narrow interests.
“The Nigeria of our dreams can only be built by citizens who refuse to be divided,” he added.
Conclusion
The comments come amid heightened online debates about insecurity, leadership responsibility, and the role of public figures in national discourse, with Obi urging restraint, reflection, and unity across all divides.
