Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has warned young Nigerians to be cautious of stories that use ethnicity, religion, and identity as tools ahead of the 2027 elections.
In a letter he posted on his X handle on Wednesday, Obi said that the future of Nigeria can only be shaped by citizens who choose to stay united. He urged them to focus on competence, good governance, and national growth instead of divisions.
He pointed out that a major takeaway from the 2023 elections, especially in Lagos, was how discussions moved from governance issues to ethnic and identity matters after the presidential election.
Obi explained that what should have been talks about competence, leadership, and growth were turned into tribal arguments. Many people fell into these “carefully designed narratives” without even realizing it.
Obi stated that politicians without real ideas, performance, or a vision often turn to exploiting ethnic and religious divisions. He noted that “a divided people are easier to manipulate than a united people.”
He cautioned that similar tactics are resurfacing as the 2027 elections approach, though they are now more subtle. He advised young Nigerians to think critically about the stories being pushed by those who claim to be fighting for a good cause.
The former governor of Anambra State also defended Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). He called Adeboye a respected faith leader who has always spoken for peace, love, and unity.
Obi remarked that it is unfair to expect the 84-year-old cleric to take on responsibilities that should belong to the younger generation. He emphasized that the duty of building a better Nigeria falls on the youth.
His comments come as online discussions increase, urging religious leaders to be more active about insecurity in Nigeria, especially under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership. There have also been claims about Adeboye’s past involvement in protests, though the church has labeled these stories as misrepresentations.
Obi encouraged young Nigerians to check facts, question narratives, and avoid being used to spread hate or division.
“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,” he said.
In the upcoming 2027 presidential elections, President Tinubu is expected to face significant challengers, including Atiku Abubakar from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Peter Obi from the NDC.
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