Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has defended the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, while warning Nigerians against narratives that could deepen ethnic and social divisions in the country.
In a statement posted on his verified X account on Thursday, Obi cautioned that Nigeria must avoid a repeat of divisive political rhetoric witnessed during the 2023 general elections, particularly in Lagos State, where he said public discourse shifted from issues of governance and competence to ethnic and tribal sentiments.
He argued that conversations that should have centred on development, leadership, and the future of the country were instead redirected into identity-based debates that weakened national cohesion.
“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 stated.
The former Anambra State governor warned that similar patterns were beginning to re-emerge ahead of future political contests, urging Nigerians to be cautious of narratives that promote suspicion and division among citizens.
Addressing recent criticisms directed at Pastor Adeboye over his alleged role in the cancellation of a planned protest, Obi described the cleric as one of Nigeria’s foremost religious leaders whose message has consistently focused on peace, prayer, reconciliation, and unity.
“Let me state clearly that Pastor Enoch Adeboye remains one of the foremost fathers of faith in our nation. For decades, he has consistently preached the virtues of peace, prayer, love, reconciliation, and national unity,” he said.
Obi added that Adeboye had continued to demonstrate humility and restraint even in the face of criticism, describing his response to provocation as guided by wisdom and grace.
He further stressed that younger Nigerians should not transfer the burden of national transformation to elderly leaders, noting that responsibility for reform and development lies largely with the younger generation.
“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,” Obi added.
The former presidential candidate urged young Nigerians to remain vigilant against attempts to manipulate them through ethnic, religious, or identity-based narratives, advising them to question claims, verify information, and reject hate-driven messaging.
“I therefore urge all young Nigerians: do not allow anyone to recruit you into hatred. Question every narrative. Verify every claim. Follow the facts. Resist manipulation,” he said.
He concluded that Nigeria’s progress depends on unity, mutual understanding, and a collective commitment to national development above personal or sectional interests.