The Leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will remain in office despite mounting criticism and opposition against his administration.
Speaking during a sermon shared with journalists on Friday, Ayodele maintained that no amount of prayers or political pressure would remove Tinubu from power before the end of his tenure.
“I said God will not remove Tinubu, he will not, your prayers will not remove him,” the cleric stated.
Ayodele explained that while many Nigerians remain dissatisfied with the current economic hardship, insecurity, and rising cost of living under Tinubu’s administration, the president would still survive politically and continue to govern the country.
According to him, those expecting divine intervention to abruptly end Tinubu’s presidency would be disappointed because the Nigerian leader still enjoys spiritual backing that would sustain him in office.
The cleric, however, clarified that his statement should not be interpreted as an endorsement of every government policy. He noted that the administration still faces serious challenges that require urgent attention, especially in the areas of security, inflation, and unemployment.
Ayodele warned that if the government fails to tackle worsening insecurity across parts of the country, public frustration could deepen ahead of the next general elections.
He also urged Tinubu to focus more on governance rather than political distractions, insisting that Nigerians were more concerned about economic relief and stability.
“The people are hungry, things are difficult, and the government must listen carefully to the cries of ordinary Nigerians,” he said.
The prophet further cautioned opposition politicians against relying solely on public anger to unseat the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, in future elections. According to him, opposition parties must build stronger structures and present credible alternatives if they hope to challenge Tinubu politically.
Ayodele has become known for making political prophecies and controversial comments on national issues over the years. Some of his previous predictions regarding elections and political developments have continued to generate debate among supporters and critics alike.
His latest remarks are expected to provoke reactions from opposition supporters and Nigerians frustrated by the country’s economic situation.
Since assuming office in May 2023, Tinubu’s administration has implemented several economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy and exchange rate adjustments. While the government argues that the policies are necessary to stabilize the economy, many Nigerians have complained about rising inflation and worsening living conditions.
Despite the criticism, Tinubu and senior government officials have repeatedly appealed for patience, insisting that the reforms will eventually produce positive results for the country.
Ayodele’s comments add another dimension to the ongoing political conversation surrounding Tinubu’s leadership and Nigeria’s future political landscape.