Dangerous Ethnic Division Warning from Peter Obi urges young Nigerians to reject manipulation and prioritise unity over hatred

Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr Peter Obi, on Thursday issued a stern warning against what he described as Dangerous Ethnic Division in Nigeria, urging young citizens to resist manipulation, reject tribal politics and recommit to national unity.

Also read: Peter Obi urges unity after NDC primary disputes

In a detailed public message addressed to young Nigerians, Mr Obi reflected on the political atmosphere following the 2023 presidential election, particularly in Lagos State, where he said public discourse shifted away from governance, competence and national development towards ethnic suspicion and tribal sentiment.

He stated that many well-meaning Nigerians became drawn into narratives that were carefully constructed to deepen divisions, stressing that such trends often emerge when political actors struggle to compete on ideas, performance or vision.

According to him, history shows that whenever political competition becomes difficult on merit, some actors resort to identity politics, exploiting ethnicity, religion and social fault lines to gain advantage.

Mr Obi warned that similar patterns were re-emerging in more subtle and sophisticated forms, with narratives being amplified by individuals who may not fully understand the broader consequences of such messaging.

In a notable section of the statement, Mr Obi defended the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, describing him as a respected spiritual leader who has consistently promoted peace, love, reconciliation and national unity over decades of ministry.

He emphasised that Pastor Adeboye’s public life has been marked by humility, restraint and wisdom, adding that his moral influence should not be entangled in political controversy or misrepresentation.

Mr Obi further argued that responsibility for building Nigeria rests primarily with the younger generation, noting that it would be unfair to shift civic expectations onto elderly religious leaders who have already contributed significantly to national moral life.

He urged young Nigerians to take ownership of national conversations, lead reforms and actively drive the change required to strengthen democratic governance and social cohesion.

The former Anambra State governor also cautioned against what he described as the deliberate use of narratives to weaken trust among citizens, warning that such efforts often disguise division under the appearance of civic advocacy.

In a powerful appeal, Mr Obi urged Nigerians not to become instruments of hatred or division, advising citizens to question narratives, verify claims and rely on facts rather than emotion or misinformation.

Also read: Peter Obi expelled as Obidient Movement faction moves to rebrand

He concluded that Nigeria’s future depends on citizens who reject Dangerous Ethnic Division Warning narratives and consciously choose unity, mutual respect and collective national progress over narrow interests.