Primate Elijah Ayodele, leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket as a form of “bondage” rather than freedom.
Ayodele made the remarks in a statement issued through his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, as he reflected on Nigeria’s independence and the country’s political and economic situation.
The cleric argued that Nigeria has yet to achieve what he considers genuine independence, pointing to what he described as persistent hardship, economic difficulties and poor governance.
He also criticised the federal government for what he said was a tendency to focus on explaining the country’s problems rather than providing solutions. Ayodele questioned the direction of the administration and called for significant political restructuring.
On the 2027 presidential election, Ayodele said the continuation of a Muslim-Muslim ticket would not address what he described as Nigeria’s deeper challenges. He argued that restructuring was necessary to achieve what he considers meaningful national independence.
The cleric had previously warned that the APC’s Muslim-Muslim ticket could contribute to religious tension if not handled carefully. In September, he urged the president and his political team to approach the issue with caution, while warning against actions that could increase religious divisions.
Ayodele also criticised the government over infrastructure, healthcare and the economy, arguing that these areas remained major concerns for Nigerians.
He further expressed concern about the future of young Nigerians, saying the country needed clearer plans and stronger leadership to address the challenges facing the younger generation.
The comments form part of Ayodele’s continuing political commentary ahead of the 2027 general election. His statements about future political developments are his own views and prophecies and should not be treated as confirmed predictions.
President Tinubu and the APC have continued their political preparations for the 2027 election, while opposition parties and political groups are also positioning themselves ahead of the contest.