Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), said young Nigerians should not expect Pastor Enoch Adeboye to rebuild the nation at 84 years old.
Obi made the remarks in a post on X on Thursday, responding to social media claims about Adeboye’s silence on current hardship and insecurity.
He described Adeboye as a foremost father of faith who has long preached peace, reconciliation and national unity.
“Even when faced with provocation, his response has always reflected humility, restraint, wisdom and grace.”
Obi said it would be unfair to transfer the work of national rebuilding to an elderly 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.”
He added that the younger generation must lead the country’s recovery and reforms.
“The task of building a better Nigeria rests primarily on the shoulders of the younger generation.”
Obi warned against attempts by “self‑centred” politicians to stoke ethnic tension and distract public debate from governance issues.
“Their calculation is simple: a divided people are easier to manipulate than a united people.”
He urged youths to verify information and resist being recruited into hatred or ethnic politics.
“Question every narrative. Verify every claim. Follow the facts. Resist manipulation.”
Context And Reaction
The comments came after social posts suggested Adeboye protested during Goodluck Jonathan’s administration but stayed silent under President Bola Tinubu.
The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) reportedly dismissed one viral photo as from a nationwide peace walk organised under the Christian Association of Nigeria during the Buhari era.
Mike Bamiloye, founder of Mount Zion Faith Ministries, defended Adeboye on Wednesday, saying it is unreasonable to expect the pastor to lead street protests.
Bamiloye pointed out that Adeboye has spoken against insecurity before but that bloggers did not amplify his words.
Security Pressure On Leaders
Adeboye has publicly called on security chiefs to eliminate terrorists within 90 days or resign, a message the church shared on its X account this week.
Meanwhile, insecurity continues: on Wednesday gunmen abducted Olaide John‑Paul, sister of former Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, and her twin sons in Ibadan.
On Sunday, gunmen killed four people after attacking the convoy of Ben Nwankwo, chief of staff to Anambra Governor Chukwuma Soludo.
Obi’s intervention frames a broader debate about who should lead national change — senior moral figures or an active, organised youth movement.
He said youth leadership requires rejecting manufactured divisions and focusing on governance, competence and national development.
Sources: Peter Obi X post, RCCG public clarifications, Mike Bamiloye statement, reports on recent abductions and attacks.
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