Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has defended Pastor Enoch Adeboye amid criticism over his silence on the country’s security challenges, saying young Nigerians should not shift their responsibilities to the 84-year-old cleric.
In a statement shared on X on Thursday, Obi cautioned against efforts to stoke ethnic and religious divisions through coordinated narratives and misinformation ahead of future elections.
His remarks come as some social media users questioned why Adeboye had not led public protests against insecurity, as he did during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
According to Obi, many people unknowingly contribute to divisive agendas by amplifying narratives without understanding the motives behind them.
“Today, I see similar efforts emerging again, sometimes in more subtle and sophisticated ways. Narratives are planted, amplified, and circulated, often by individuals who genuinely believe they are defending a worthy cause, without recognizing the broader agenda behind such campaigns,” he said.
Defending Adeboye, Obi described him as one of Nigeria’s most respected spiritual leaders who has consistently preached peace, unity, and reconciliation over the years.
“Let me state clearly that 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. Even when faced with provocation, his response has always reflected humility, restraint, wisdom, and grace.
“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. It is their duty to lead the conversations, champion the reforms, and drive the positive change our nation urgently requires,” Obi stated.
