Cease Attacks On Pastor Adeboye Now – Peter Obi Tells Belligerent Nigerian Youths

THE Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has issued an urgent appeal to Nigerian youths, urging them to cease their misplaced and unwarranted attacks on Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Mr Obi warned young Nigerians against falling prey to ethnic and religious manipulation orchestrated by politicians and their agents.

The appeal comes amid growing criticism directed at the 84-year-old cleric, with some Nigerians accusing him of failing to speak out against President Bola Tinubu’s administration as vocally as he did during former President Goodluck Jonathan’s tenure.

Critics have attributed this perceived silence to ethnic and religious ties with the Tinubu family.

Mr Obi urged Nigerians not to forget the lessons from the 2023 elections, particularly in Lagos State.

“In the period following the presidential election and leading up to the governorship election, we witnessed a troubling shift in public discourse,” he wrote.

“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.”

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,” Mr Obi stated. “The task of building a better Nigeria rests primarily on the shoulders of the younger generation.”

He cautioned Nigerians against becoming instruments for those who secretly promote division while publicly preaching unity, concluding with a direct appeal: “Do not allow anyone to recruit you into hatred. Question every narrative. Verify every claim. Follow the facts. Resist manipulation.”