Primate Ayodele Faults Tinubu Government Over Hardship, Says Nigerians Are Suffering

The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration over the worsening hardship in the country, accusing the government of focusing on the 2027 general elections while Nigerians continue to struggle.

Ayodele said the situation in the country remained difficult, citing rising school fees, high market prices, insecurity and the growing economic pressure on households.

In a video statement circulating on Sunday, the cleric maintained that the condition of many Nigerians required urgent attention from the Federal Government rather than an early focus on political campaigns.

“Everything is not going well in Nigeria under this government. Nigerians are in serious pain,” he said.

Ayodele warned that public frustration could intensify as the 2027 election season gathers momentum, cautioning that supporters of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) could face hostility in communities where residents are dissatisfied with the party.

“There is heat, serious heat, not small one. If you stay inside AC, you will be feeling heat. That is the kind of thing that is coming in this election,” he said.

The cleric further warned that people angry over the country’s condition could direct their grievances at APC members during political activities.

“I am telling you in confidence, they are going to attack the people of APC in areas where they don’t want APC and people are angry,” he added.

Ayodele also addressed Tinubu directly, warning that some of the people surrounding the President might undermine his chances in the 2027 presidential election by failing to give him honest advice.

“Those surrounding you will ruin your chances in the presidential election. They are not telling you the truth,” he said.

He urged the President to pay closer attention to the advice he receives from his aides and political associates, particularly as the administration faces criticism over economic hardship and insecurity.

The cleric also cautioned the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, to protect his integrity in the conduct of the 2027 general elections.

Ayodele’s comments come amid intensifying political activities ahead of the next presidential election, with the APC and opposition parties increasingly exchanging criticisms over the state of the economy and the government’s record.

The cleric had previously made predictions about the political challenges Tinubu could face in parts of northern Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory during the 2027 election. His latest remarks focused on public dissatisfaction and the need for the government to address the difficulties confronting citizens.