Obi Warns Nigerian Youths Against Ethnic Division Ahead of 2027 Elections
...Says It's Unfair to Place Nigeria's Burdens on Pastor Adeboye at 84
Former Governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has cautioned Nigerian youths against falling victim to ethnic and divisive narratives as political activities gradually build towards the 2027 general elections.
In a message addressed to young Nigerians, Obi reflected on the events that followed the 2023 presidential election, particularly in Lagos State, where public discourse, according to him, shifted from issues of governance, competence, and national development to conversations driven by ethnic sentiments and suspicion.
He warned that politicians who struggle to compete on ideas, performance, character, and vision often resort to exploiting ethnic, religious, and identity differences to divide the populace.
“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,” Obi stated.
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 election expressed concern that similar narratives are beginning to re-emerge ahead of future political contests, noting that many people unknowingly become participants in campaigns designed to create division among citizens.
Obi also came to the defence of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, describing him as one of the foremost fathers of faith in Nigeria who has consistently preached peace, reconciliation, love, prayer, and national unity for decades.
He noted that it is unfair for Nigerians, particularly the younger generation, to expect Pastor Adeboye to shoulder responsibilities that rightly belong to them.
“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,” he said.
Obi stressed that Nigerian youths must take the lead in shaping the country’s future by championing reforms, driving constructive conversations, and promoting positive change.
He further warned against becoming instruments in the hands of individuals who secretly promote division while publicly advocating unity, arguing that their ultimate goal is to weaken the bonds that hold Nigerians together as one people.
Obi urged young Nigerians not to allow themselves to be recruited into campaigns of hatred or manipulated through ethnicity, religion, or loyalty to respected leaders.
“Question every narrative. Verify every claim. Follow the facts. Resist manipulation,” he advised.
He maintained that the Nigeria of the people’s aspirations can only be achieved through unity, mutual understanding, and a collective commitment to placing national interest above narrow ethnic or sectional considerations.
