June 4, 2026

Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has defended Pastor Enoch Adeboye against recent criticisms over his alleged role in the cancellation of a planned protest, warning Nigerians against narratives that could deepen ethnic and social divisions.

In a statement posted on his verified X account on Thursday, Obi said Nigerians must learn from the experiences of the 2023 elections, particularly in Lagos, where political discourse shifted from issues of governance and competence to ethnic and tribal sentiments.

According to him, conversations that should have focused on development and the future of the country were diverted into divisive debates that weakened national cohesion.

“Throughout history, whenever politicians find it difficult to compete on ideas, performance, character, or vision, some resort to exploiting the fault lines of ethnicity, religion, and identity,” Obi said.