Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has cautioned Nigerian youths against allowing themselves to be used as instruments of ethnic and religious division ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a public message addressed to young Nigerians, Obi recalled the shift in public discourse that followed the 2023 presidential election, particularly in Lagos State, as a lesson that must never be forgotten.
He observed that in the period between the presidential poll and the subsequent governorship election, conversations that should have focused on competence, governance, development, and the nation’s future were gradually diverted towards tribal sentiments, ethnic divisions, and unnecessary suspicion among citizens.
“Many sincere and well-meaning Nigerians participated in these conversations without realising that they were being drawn into narratives carefully designed by others,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor warned that throughout history, whenever politicians find it difficult to compete on ideas, performance, character, or vision, some resort to exploiting the fault lines of ethnicity, religion, and identity.
“Their calculation is simple: a divided people are easier to manipulate than a united people,” he explained.
Obi noted that similar efforts are emerging again ahead of 2027, sometimes in more subtle and sophisticated ways.
He said narratives are being planted, amplified, and circulated, often by individuals who genuinely believe they are defending a worthy cause without recognising the broader agenda behind such campaigns.
The Labour Party chieftain made specific reference to Pastor Enoch Adeboye, describing the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God as one of the foremost fathers of faith in the 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,” Obi said.
He argued that at 84 years of age, it would be unfair for young and able-bodied Nigerians to transfer to Adeboye 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,” he stated.
Obi urged youths to be careful not to become instruments in the hands of those who secretly nurture division while publicly preaching unity.
“In most cases, their target is not the individual being attacked; instead, it is the person who is attacking. Their real objective is to weaken the bonds that hold us together as one people and one nation,” he warned.
The former presidential candidate therefore appealed to all young Nigerians not to allow anyone to recruit them into hatred or weaponise their ethnicity, faith, or admiration for respected leaders.
“Question every narrative. Verify every claim. Follow the facts. Resist manipulation,” Obi urged.
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