The National Democratic Congress flagbearer, Peter Obi, has cautioned Nigerian youths against ethnic and religious divisions, urging them not to allow themselves to be used to promote narratives that could undermine national unity.
Obi made the call in a post on his X handle on Thursday, amid ongoing social media criticism directed at the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, over comments and reactions linked to worsening insecurity in the country.
The controversy followed demands by some young Nigerians for Adeboye to publicly speak out or lead protests against the Federal Government, referencing a viral image that allegedly showed him participating in a protest against former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.
However, the Redeemed Christian Church of God has since debunked 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 connected to any political protest.
In his statement, Obi said the 2023 general elections, particularly in Lagos State, demonstrated how public discourse can be diverted from governance and development issues into ethnic and identity-based sentiments, often used by politicians unable to compete on ideas or performance.
He further warned that many Nigerians unknowingly amplify divisive narratives, stressing that Pastor Adeboye remains a respected religious leader who has consistently preached peace, unity, and reconciliation. Obi added that responsibility for driving national change rests primarily on the younger generation, urging them to focus on unity, verify information before sharing, and resist manipulation.
Elijah Adeyemi
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