Yemi Obafemi
Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has cautioned Nigerians against divisive ethnic and religious narratives, urging citizens, particularly young people, to focus on unity and nation-building.
Obi said political discourse after the 2023 presidential election gradually shifted from issues of governance, competence, and development to tribal sentiments and ethnic divisions.
“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,” he said.
According to him, some politicians resort to exploiting ethnic and religious differences when they are unable to compete on ideas, character, performance, and vision.
“Their calculation is simple: a divided people are easier to manipulate than a united people,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor also defended renowned cleric, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, describing him as a symbol of peace, humility, and national unity.
“Pastor Enoch Adeboye remains one of the foremost fathers of faith in our nation. For decades, he has consistently preached the virtues of peace, prayer, love, reconciliation, and national unity,” he said.
Obi argued that younger Nigerians should take responsibility for driving reforms and national development rather than placing such expectations on elderly leaders.
“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,” he added.
He further urged Nigerians to scrutinise information, verify claims, and reject attempts to use ethnicity, religion, or admiration for respected leaders as tools of division.
“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.”
Obi maintained that Nigeria’s progress depends on citizens choosing unity over division and prioritising the country’s collective future above narrow interests.
“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,” he said.
