Peter Obi, the 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party and prominent leader of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has strongly defended Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), against recent criticisms and urged Nigerians to reject divisive ethnic and religious narratives.
In a statement issued on Thursday, Obi described the attacks on the revered 84-year-old cleric as unfair and unacceptable, particularly those linking him to the cancellation of a planned national protest. He emphasized that Pastor Adeboye has remained a consistent symbol of peace, humility, love, reconciliation, and national unity throughout his decades of ministry.
“It is unfair for young and able-bodied Nigerians to shift responsibilities that belong to them onto an 84-year-old man of God who has spent his life preaching peace and prayer,” Obi stated. “Pastor Enoch Adeboye deserves our respect and appreciation, not vilification for political reasons.
Obi warned that some politicians, unable to compete on ideas, performance, character, or vision, often resort to exploiting ethnic, religious, and identity fault lines to gain political advantage. He drew lessons from the 2023 elections, particularly in Lagos, where political discourse was regrettably diverted from governance and competence to tribal sentiments.
“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,” he added. “We must resist this dangerous trend as we approach future elections.
The former Anambra State Governor called on Nigerian youths not to allow themselves to be used as tools for hatred or ethnic mobilization. He stressed that the task of building a better Nigeria rests primarily on the youth and urged them to focus on issues-based engagement rather than divisive politics.
Obi reiterated his commitment to a united Nigeria where citizens are judged by competence, integrity, and vision, not by tribe or religion.