‎Peter Obi Warns Young Nigerians Against Ethnic Division, Urges Focus on Unity and Nation-Buildin

Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congres (NDC), Peter Obi, has called on young Nigerians to resist divisive narratives capable of undermining national unity, warning that ethnic and tribal sentiments are often deployed by politicians when they lack compelling ideas, vision, or performance records.
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‎In a message addressed to young Nigerians, Obi reflected on lessons from the 2023 general elections, particularly the political climate in Lagos State following the presidential election and leading up to the governorship poll.
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‎According to him, public discussions that should have centered on governance, competence, development, and the future of the country were gradually overshadowed by conversations driven by tribal and ethnic considerations.
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‎Obi noted that many Nigerians unknowingly became participants in narratives designed to create division among citizens, stressing that throughout history, some political actors have exploited ethnic, religious, and identity differences to advance their interests.
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‎“When 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 said, adding that a divided population is easier to manipulate than a united one.
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‎The former Anambra State governor expressed concern that similar efforts are beginning to re-emerge ahead of future political contests, sometimes in more subtle and sophisticated forms. He warned that narratives are often deliberately planted and amplified by individuals who may not fully understand the broader agenda behind them.
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‎Obi also defended the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, describing him as one of Nigeria’s foremost spiritual leaders whose decades-long ministry has consistently promoted peace, love, reconciliation, prayer, and national unity.
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‎He argued that it would be unfair for younger Nigerians to place responsibilities that belong to them on the shoulders of the 84-year-old cleric.
‎“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,” Obi stated.
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‎He emphasized that the responsibility of building a better Nigeria rests largely with the younger generation, urging them to take ownership of conversations around reforms, governance, and national development.
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‎Obi further cautioned Nigerians against becoming tools in the hands of those who publicly preach unity while secretly encouraging division, insisting that the ultimate goal of such actors is to weaken the bonds that hold the country together.
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‎He further urged citizens to critically examine information, verify claims, and resist attempts at manipulation.
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‎“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.
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‎Reaffirming his long-standing message of hope and national renewal, Obi concluded with his signature phrase: “A New Nigeria is Possible.”