Isaac Samuel
The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has faulted calls and public expectations that the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, should spearhead protests against government policies at the age of 84.
Obi, in a statement shared on his X handle on Thursday, said it was unfair and unreasonable to expect the respected cleric to shoulder such responsibilities, noting that nation-building should rest primarily on the younger generation.
He described Adeboye as one of Nigeria’s foremost fathers of faith who has, over the decades, consistently preached peace, love, reconciliation and national unity, adding that his responses to national issues have largely reflected wisdom, restraint and humility.
“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,” Obi said.
The former Anambra State governor stressed that young Nigerians must take ownership of the country’s future by leading conversations, driving reforms and championing positive change.
He also warned against attempts to exploit ethnic and religious divisions for political advantage, saying such tactics divert attention from critical issues of governance, competence and national development.
Obi noted that similar patterns of manipulation emerged after the 2023 presidential election, where public discourse was, in his view, deliberately steered away from substantive issues.
“Many sincere and well-meaning Nigerians participated in these conversations without realising that they were being drawn into narratives carefully designed by others. Their calculation is simple: a divided people are easier to manipulate than a united people,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to be cautious of narratives that promote hatred or division, insisting that citizens must resist becoming tools in the hands of those who benefit from discord.
“We must be careful not to become instruments in the hands of those who secretly nurture division while publicly preaching unity,” Obi said.
The NDC presidential candidate further advised young Nigerians not to allow themselves to be recruited into ethnic or religious hostility, or to be used in amplifying propaganda.
“Question every narrative. Verify every claim. Follow the facts. Resist manipulation,” he added.
Obi maintained that Nigeria’s progress depends on citizens who choose unity over division and place national interest above narrow considerations.
