The Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has urged Nigerian youths to stop attacking the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor E.A. Adeboye, saying the 84-year-old should not bear burdens meant for younger Nigerians.
Obi’s appeal followed criticism of Adeboye’s “silence” on Tinubu’s government. Critics compare it to his vocal stance during Jonathan’s administration.
In a statement posted on X, Obi warned Nigerian Youths against falling prey to ethnic and religious manipulations orchestrated by politicians and their agents.
“At 84, it is unfair for youths to transfer responsibilities that belong to them,” Obi wrote, urging young Nigerians to lead reforms.
He warned against ethnic and religious manipulation, recalling 2023 post-election discourse in Lagos. “Politicians exploit identity when they cannot compete on ideas and performance,” he said.
The critics attribute the perceived silence to ethnic and religious affiliations with the Tinubu family.
“In the period following the presidential election and leading up to the governorship election, we witnessed a troubling shift in public discourse.
“Conversations that should have focused on competence, governance, development, and the future of our nation were gradually diverted towards tribal sentiments, ethnic divisions, and unnecessary suspicion among citizens. Many sincere and well-meaning Nigerians participated in these conversations without realising that they were being drawn into narratives carefully designed by others,” Obi wrote.
He noted that history has shown that when politicians struggle to compete on ideas, performance, character, or vision, they often exploit the fault lines of ethnicity, religion, and identity to divide the people.
“Today, I see similar efforts emerging again, sometimes in more subtle and sophisticated ways.
“Narratives are planted, amplified, and circulated, often by individuals who genuinely believe they are defending a worthy cause, without recognising the broader agenda behind such campaigns,” he said.
The former Anambra State governor described Pastor Adeboye as one of Nigeria’s foremost fathers of faith, who for decades has preached peace, prayer, love, reconciliation, and national unity.
“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. It is their duty to lead the conversations, champion the reforms, and drive the positive change our nation urgently requires,” he added.
Obi cautioned Nigerians against being used as instruments by those who secretly promote division while publicly preaching unity.
“Their target is not the individual being attacked; instead, it is the person who is attacking. Their real objective is to weaken the bonds that hold us together as one people and one nation.”
He concluded with a direct appeal to the youth, saying, “I therefore urge all young Nigerians: 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.
“Question every narrative. Verify every claim. Follow the facts. Resist manipulation.
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 noted
