Peter Obi has advised Nigerian youths to avoid spreading ethnic and religious divisions, warning them against dragging religious leaders into political disputes.
Obi made the appeal on Thursday via a post on X, following online criticism directed at the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Enoch Adeboye, over rising insecurity in the country.
The backlash emerged after some young Nigerians called on Adeboye to publicly condemn insecurity or lead protests against the Federal Government. They referenced a viral image allegedly showing the cleric holding a protest placard during a demonstration against former President Goodluck Jonathan.
However, the RCCG dismissed the claim, clarifying that the image was taken during a peaceful walk under the administration of late President Muhammadu Buhari and was not linked to any protest activity.
Reacting to the controversy, Obi described the 84-year-old cleric as a respected spiritual father who has consistently promoted peace, love, reconciliation, and national unity.
He cautioned that it was unfair for young Nigerians to shift political responsibilities onto religious leaders, stressing that such duties belong to citizens, especially the younger generation.
“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,” Obi said.
He further emphasized that nation-building rests largely on the youth, urging them to take responsibility for driving reforms and leading constructive conversations about Nigeria’s future.
Obi also called for critical thinking and verification of information shared online, warning against manipulation and misinformation.
“The Nigeria of our dreams can only be built by citizens who refuse to be divided, who choose unity over hatred, and who place our collective future above narrow interests,” he added.