Peter Obi Defends Adeboye, Urges Nigerian Youths To Take Responsibility For Nation Building

Former presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called on Nigerian youths to stop directing attacks at the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, insisting that the responsibility of transforming Nigeria should not be shifted to an elderly religious leader.

In a statement shared on his X account, Obi warned against attempts to drag the respected cleric into political and religious controversies, stressing that such actions could deepen divisions within the country.

The former Anambra State governor noted that throughout Nigeria’s political history, certain individuals have deliberately promoted narratives aimed at creating suspicion, mistrust, and disunity among citizens. According to him, many Nigerians often become involved in such campaigns without realizing the broader motives behind them.

Obi stated that politicians who lack the capacity to compete based on ideas, competence, character, performance, and vision frequently resort to exploiting ethnic, religious, and identity differences for political gain.

He expressed concern that similar tactics are beginning to reappear in the country, though in more subtle and sophisticated forms. According to him, divisive narratives are often carefully planted, amplified, and circulated by individuals who genuinely believe they are defending a noble cause, while unknowingly advancing agendas that undermine national unity.

“Today, I see similar efforts emerging again, sometimes in more subtle and sophisticated ways. Narratives are planted, amplified, and circulated, often by individuals who genuinely believe they are defending a worthy cause, without recognising the broader agenda behind such campaigns,” Obi said.

The NDC presidential candidate strongly defended Pastor Adeboye, describing him as one of Nigeria’s most respected spiritual leaders who has consistently promoted peace, prayer, love, reconciliation, and national unity throughout his decades-long ministry.

Obi praised the RCCG leader for maintaining humility, wisdom, restraint, and grace even in the face of criticism and provocation, noting that his contributions to national stability should not be overlooked.

He argued that expecting Adeboye, who is now 84 years old, to carry responsibilities that belong to younger Nigerians is both unfair and unrealistic.

“Let me state clearly that Pastor Enoch Adeboye remains one of the foremost fathers of faith in our nation. For decades, he has consistently preached the virtues of peace, prayer, love, reconciliation, and national unity. Even when faced with provocation, his response has always reflected humility, restraint, wisdom, and grace.

“At 84 years of age, it would be unfair for young and able-bodied Nigerians to transfer to him responsibilities that properly belong to them. The task of building a better Nigeria rests primarily on the shoulders of the younger generation. It is their duty to lead the conversations, champion the reforms, and drive the positive change our nation urgently requires,” Obi stated.

He further emphasized that Nigeria’s future depends largely on the commitment, participation, and leadership of its younger population. Rather than allowing themselves to be drawn into campaigns that promote division, Obi urged youths to focus on advocating meaningful reforms, fostering national unity, and contributing to the country’s development.