Peter Obi, the flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), has cautioned Nigerian youths against falling prey to ethnic and religious divisions. In a post on his X account, Obi warned against narratives that undermine national unity, following a wave of social media attacks targeting Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).
Background of the Controversy
The attacks stemmed from demands by many young Nigerians that Adeboye speak out or lead protests against the Federal Government over worsening insecurity. A viral photograph purportedly showed the cleric holding a placard during a demonstration against former President Goodluck Jonathan's administration. However, RCCG debunked the claim, clarifying that the image was from a peaceful walk during the late President Muhammadu Buhari's administration and was not a political protest.
Obi's Message
Obi highlighted lessons from the 2023 general elections, especially in Lagos State, where public discourse shifted from governance to ethnic and identity-based sentiments. He noted that politicians who struggle on ideas, performance, and vision often exploit such divisions. Obi urged youths to take responsibility for national change rather than burdening religious leaders like Adeboye, whom he described as a respected figure preaching peace, unity, and reconciliation.
Ezekwesili's Defense
Former Education Minister Oby Ezekwesili also defended Adeboye, asserting that he has consistently spoken on insecurity, governance, and restructuring across different administrations. In a social media statement, she said, “No, Pastor Adeboye is not our problem. He speaks. He spoke in the 1990s, early 2000s, 2010, 2020, and 2025.” She cited his November 2025 Holy Ghost Service remarks urging the Tinubu administration to act decisively against insecurity, questioning whether Nigerians paid attention to his interventions.
Call for Unity
Both leaders emphasized the need for youths to avoid being used to promote divisive narratives. Obi warned that many Nigerians participate in such narratives without understanding the broader intent, while Ezekwesili stressed that the real issue is not Adeboye's silence but the lack of attention to his messages.
