By Taiwo Scholarstica
National Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has cautioned Nigerian youths against ethnic and religious divisions, urging them not to be used to spread narratives that weaken national unity.
Obi made the appeal in a post on his X account on Thursday, amid online criticism directed at the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, over rising insecurity in the country.
Some youths had called on Adeboye to publicly condemn the situation or lead protests against the Federal Government, referencing a viral image allegedly showing him during a protest against former President Goodluck Jonathan. However, the Redeemed Christian Church of God has dismissed the claim, clarifying that the image was taken during a peaceful walk under the Muhammadu Buhari administration and was not linked to any protest.
Obi said recent political experiences, including the 2023 elections in Lagos State, showed how public conversations can be shifted from governance issues to ethnic and identity-based sentiments.
He warned that politicians often exploit such divisions when they cannot compete on ideas or performance, adding that Nigerians must be alert to manipulative narratives circulating online.
Defending Adeboye, Obi described him as a respected faith leader who has consistently preached peace, unity and reconciliation, saying it would be unfair to place political expectations on him due to his age.
He stressed that the responsibility of national transformation rests on young Nigerians, who must lead constructive dialogue and reforms.
Obi further urged citizens to verify information, resist manipulation and prioritise unity over division in nation-building.