Peter Obi Urges Youths to Reject Division, Embrace National Unity

By Tgnews Reporter

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called on young Nigerians to resist attempts to divide the country along ethnic and religious lines, urging them instead to focus on unity, truth, and nation-building.

In a message addressed to Nigerian youths, Obi reflected on lessons from the 2023 elections, particularly in Lagos, where he said political discourse gradually shifted from issues of competence, governance, and development to ethnic and tribal sentiments.

According to him, many well-meaning Nigerians unknowingly became involved in narratives designed to create division among citizens.

Obi warned that politicians who struggle to compete on ideas, performance, character, and vision often resort to exploiting ethnic, religious, and identity differences to gain political advantage.

He noted that similar divisive narratives are beginning to re-emerge, sometimes in subtle ways, and cautioned young people against becoming tools in campaigns aimed at weakening national unity.

The former Anambra State governor also defended Enoch Adeboye, describing him as one of Nigeria’s foremost fathers of faith who has consistently preached peace, love, reconciliation, and national unity over the decades.

Obi said it would be unfair to place responsibilities that belong to younger Nigerians on the shoulders of the 84-year-old cleric, stressing that the task of building a better Nigeria rests primarily with the younger generation.

He urged youths to take the lead in driving reforms, promoting constructive conversations, and championing positive change across the country.

“Question every narrative. Verify every claim. Follow the facts. Resist manipulation,” Obi advised, while encouraging Nigerians to reject hatred and refuse to allow their ethnicity, religion, or admiration for respected leaders to be weaponised.

He maintained that the Nigeria of citizens’ aspirations can only be achieved through unity, mutual respect, and a commitment to placing the nation’s collective future above narrow interests.

Obi concluded his message with his popular slogan, reaffirming his belief that “A New Nigeria is Possible.”