Former Labour Party presidential candidate and National Democratic Coalition (NDC) standard-bearer, Peter Obi, has defended the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, against recent criticisms, while warning Nigerians against divisive ethnic and religious narratives.
Obi's reaction followed controversies surrounding allegations linking the respected cleric to the cancellation of a planned protest, a development that has generated debate in some quarters.
In a statement posted on his verified X account on Thursday, Obi urged Nigerians to resist attempts by political actors to exploit ethnic, tribal and religious sentiments for political gain.
The former Anambra State governor said the country must draw lessons from the 2023 elections, particularly in Lagos State, where political conversations were, in many instances, dominated by ethnic considerations rather than discussions about leadership, competence and governance.
According to him, issues that should have focused on policy choices and national development were overshadowed by identity-based politics that created unnecessary divisions among citizens.
Obi noted that throughout history, politicians who lack compelling ideas, performance records or a clear vision often seek refuge in narratives that exploit differences in ethnicity, religion and identity.
He warned that similar tactics appear to be resurfacing ahead of future political contests, with some individuals deliberately promoting narratives capable of deepening mistrust and hostility among Nigerians.
The former governor said many citizens unknowingly become participants in campaigns aimed at polarising the country, stressing the need for greater awareness and vigilance.
Coming to Adeboye's defence, Obi described the cleric as a respected spiritual leader whose decades of service have been dedicated to promoting peace, unity, prayer and reconciliation.
He said the RCCG leader has consistently used his platform to encourage harmony among Nigerians and should not be portrayed in a manner that contradicts his long-standing commitment to national cohesion.
Obi further noted that despite criticism and public attacks over the years, Adeboye has remained measured in his responses, choosing the path of humility, wisdom and restraint.
The former presidential candidate also argued that younger Nigerians must assume greater responsibility for addressing the country's challenges rather than expecting elderly leaders to carry the burden of national transformation.
At 84, he said, Adeboye has already made significant contributions to society and should not be saddled with responsibilities that rightly belong to younger generations.
Obi urged Nigerian youths to be discerning consumers of information, warning against efforts to recruit them into campaigns of hatred or division.
He encouraged citizens to question narratives, verify claims and rely on facts before forming opinions on issues of national importance.
According to him, Nigeria's future depends on its ability to rise above ethnic and religious fault lines and embrace a common vision anchored on justice, unity and development.
He maintained that sustainable progress would only be achieved when Nigerians place the country's collective interests above sectional considerations and work together to build a more inclusive and prosperous nation.
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