RismadarVoice Reporters, June 4, 2026
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate and Chieftain of Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has thrown his weight behind Pastor Enoch Adeboye amid recent criticism surrounding the cleric, while urging Nigerians to reject ethnic and religious divisions that could threaten national unity.
In a statement shared on his verified X account on Thursday, Obi warned that political actors often exploit ethnic, religious, and identity differences when they are unable to compete based on competence, ideas, and performance.
Reflecting on the 2023 general elections, particularly in Lagos State, the former Anambra State governor said political discussions that should have focused on governance, development, and leadership capacity were instead overshadowed by ethnic and tribal sentiments.
According to Obi, the shift away from issue-based politics weakened national cohesion and distracted citizens from matters critical to the country’s progress.
He cautioned that similar divisive narratives appear to be resurfacing ahead of future political contests, with some individuals allegedly seeking to create mistrust and tension among Nigerians for political gain.
“Whenever politicians struggle to compete on ideas, vision, character, or performance, they often resort to exploiting the fault lines of ethnicity, religion, and identity,” Obi stated.
Addressing the controversy involving Pastor Adeboye, Obi described the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) as a respected spiritual leader whose teachings have consistently promoted peace, unity, reconciliation, and national development.
He noted that throughout decades of public ministry, Adeboye has remained committed to fostering harmony and encouraging prayers for the nation’s well-being.
Obi further praised the cleric’s response to criticism, saying he has continued to demonstrate humility, wisdom, and restraint even when confronted with attacks and provocation.
The former presidential candidate also argued that younger Nigerians should take greater responsibility for addressing the country’s challenges rather than placing that burden on elderly leaders.
“At 84 years old, it is unfair to expect Pastor Adeboye to carry responsibilities that rightly belong to younger and more active citizens,” he said.
Calling on Nigerians, particularly the youth, to remain vigilant, Obi urged them to critically examine information and resist attempts to manipulate public opinion through ethnic, religious, or identity-based propaganda.
He encouraged citizens to verify claims, focus on facts, and reject narratives designed to foster hatred and division.
Obi maintained that Nigeria’s future depends on unity, mutual respect, and a collective commitment to nation-building, stressing that the country’s progress can only be achieved when citizens place the common good above sectional interests.
He urged Nigerians to remain focused on the issues that truly matter and to work together in pursuit of a more united and prosperous nation.
