Peter Obi warns young Nigerians against ethnic division, political manipulation

Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr Peter Obi, has urged young Nigerians to resist attempts to divide the country along ethnic and religious lines, warning that politicians often exploit such sentiments when they are unable to compete on ideas, performance, and vision.

In a statement titled, “One lesson from the 2023 elections, particularly in Lagos, should never be forgotten,” Obi reflected on the period following the 2023 presidential election, saying public discourse gradually shifted from issues of governance, competence and national development to ethnic and tribal considerations.

According to him, many Nigerians unknowingly became participants in narratives designed to create division and suspicion among citizens.

“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,” he said.

Obi warned that similar efforts are resurfacing, often through carefully crafted narratives amplified by individuals who may not fully understand the broader agenda behind them.

The former Anambra State governor also defended the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, describing him as one of Nigeria’s foremost spiritual leaders who has consistently promoted peace, prayer, reconciliation and national unity.

“Even when faced with provocation, his response has always reflected humility, restraint, wisdom and grace,” Obi said.

He argued that at 84 years old, Adeboye should not be burdened with responsibilities that rightly belong to younger Nigerians, stressing that the task of building a better nation rests largely with the younger generation.

Obi, pushing the “A New Nigeria is Possible” mantra, urged young people to remain vigilant against attempts to manipulate them through ethnic, religious or political sentiments.

“Do not allow anyone to recruit you into hatred. Do not allow anyone to weaponise your ethnicity, your faith, or your admiration for respected leaders,” he said.

He further advised Nigerians to question narratives, verify claims, follow facts and reject divisive campaigns, insisting that national progress can only be achieved through unity and a shared commitment to the country’s future.

“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,” Obi stated.