Peter Obi warns youth not to fall for ethnic and religious tricks before 2027

Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has warned young Nigerians not to be misled by stories that play on ethnicity, religion, and identity as the 2027 elections approach.

In an open letter posted on his X handle on Wednesday, Mr Obi said the future of Nigeria can only be built by people who refuse to be divided. He emphasized the need to focus on competence, governance, and national development.

He pointed out a key lesson from the 2023 elections, especially in Lagos, where discussions shifted from governance issues to ethnic feelings after the presidential election.

According to him, talks that should have centered on competence, leadership, and development were intentionally turned towards tribal divisions. Many citizens got pulled into “carefully designed narratives” without realizing it.

Mr Obi said politicians who lack ideas, results, or vision often take advantage of ethnic and religious divisions. He noted that “a divided people are easier to manipulate than a united people.”

He warned that similar trends are appearing again ahead of 2027, though in less obvious ways. He urged young Nigerians to critically examine the stories being promoted by those who think they are defending a good cause.

The former governor of Anambra State also spoke up for the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Enoch Adeboye. He called him a respected faith leader who has always preached peace, love, and unity.

He said it is unfair to expect the 84-year-old cleric to take on responsibilities that belong to younger Nigerians. Mr Obi stressed that the job of creating a better Nigeria is on the youth.

These comments come at a time when online debates are calling for religious leaders to take stronger action on insecurity in Nigeria. This is especially under President Bola Tinubu’s government. Claims about Mr Adeboye’s past involvement in protests have also come up again online, but the church has previously said these stories are misrepresentations.

Mr 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 let anyone use your ethnicity, your faith, or your respect for leaders as a weapon,” he said.

In the upcoming 2027 presidential election, current President Tinubu is expected to face major challengers, including Atiku Abubakar of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Peter Obi of the NDC.