The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 general elections, Peter Obi, has called on young Nigerians to resist attempts to divide the country along ethnic and religious lines, warning that such tactics are often used by politicians who lack compelling ideas and vision.
In a statement posted on his official X handle on Thursday, June 4, Obi reflected on the aftermath of the 2023 elections, particularly in Lagos, where he said public discussions gradually shifted away from governance and development towards tribal and ethnic sentiments.
According to him, many Nigerians unknowingly became part of narratives designed to create divisions among citizens.
“One lesson from the 2023 elections, particularly in Lagos, should never be forgotten,” Obi stated.
“In the period following the presidential election and leading up to the governorship election, we witnessed a troubling shift in public discourse.
“Conversations that should have focused on competence, governance, development, and the future of our nation were gradually diverted towards tribal sentiments, ethnic divisions, and unnecessary suspicion among citizens.”
The former Anambra State governor said history has shown that some political actors resort to exploiting ethnic and religious differences when they are unable to compete on performance, ideas, or character.
“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,” he said.
Obi warned that similar tactics were beginning to surface again, sometimes in more subtle forms, and urged Nigerians to be vigilant.
Turning to recent public debates involving General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Obi defended the cleric and described him as a symbol of peace and national unity.
“Let me state clearly that Pastor Enoch Adeboye remains one of the foremost fathers of faith in our nation.
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“For decades, he has consistently preached the virtues of peace, prayer, love, reconciliation, and national unity. Even when faced with provocation, his response has always reflected humility, restraint, wisdom, and grace,” Obi stated.
First Daily reports that there have been accusations against the cleric on social media, over his perceived silence on the state of the country and insecurity.
Online critics alleged that Adeboye protested against ex-president Muhammadu Buhari, during the insecurity crisis during his administration but kept silent during Tinubu’s administration, a claim the RCCG firmly rejected in a statement on Monday, June 1.
Obi added that the responsibility for building a better Nigeria rests largely with younger citizens rather than elderly religious leaders.
“At 84 years of age, it would be unfair for young and able-bodied Nigerians to transfer to him responsibilities that properly belong to them.
“The task of building a better Nigeria rests primarily on the shoulders of the younger generation. It is their duty to lead the conversations, champion the reforms, and drive the positive change our nation urgently requires.”
He cautioned Nigerians against becoming tools in the hands of those seeking to create division for political gain.
“We must be careful not to become instruments in the hands of those who secretly nurture division while publicly preaching unity,” he said.
He concluded by urging citizens to verify information, reject hatred, and prioritise national unity.
“I therefore urge all young Nigerians: do not allow anyone to recruit you into hatred. Do not allow anyone to weaponise your ethnicity, your faith, or your admiration for respected leaders.
“Question every narrative. Verify every claim. Follow the facts. Resist manipulation.
“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,” he stated.