Obi Defends Pastor Adeboye, Warns Against Divisive Narratives
The Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has defended the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, amid recent criticisms over his alleged role in the cancellation of a planned protest, warning Nigerians against narratives capable of deepening ethnic and religious divisions.
In a statement posted on his verified X account on Thursday, Obi urged Nigerians to draw lessons from the 2023 general elections, particularly in Lagos, where he said political discussions shifted from issues of governance and competence to ethnic and tribal sentiments.
He said debates that should have focused on development and national progress were instead diverted into divisive conversations that weakened unity.
“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,” Obi said.
The former Anambra State governor warned that similar tactics were resurfacing ahead of future political contests, cautioning that some narratives were being deliberately amplified to sow distrust among citizens.
Reacting to criticisms against Adeboye, Obi described the cleric as one of Nigeria’s foremost religious leaders, noting that his teachings have consistently centred on peace, reconciliation, prayer and national unity.
He also said Adeboye had continued to respond to public criticism with “humility, restraint, wisdom, and grace.”
Obi further cautioned that responsibility for national transformation should not be unfairly shifted onto elderly leaders, stressing that younger Nigerians must take greater ownership of reforms and development.
He urged youths to reject attempts to recruit them into hatred or division, adding that Nigeria’s progress depends on unity and collective responsibility over narrow interests.
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