The Leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has issued a stern advisory to certain political figures in Lagos State, urging them to abandon any hopes of contesting the governorship election in 2027.
According to the revered cleric, their ambitions are destined to fail.
In a statement released by his media aide, Oluwatosin Osho, Primate Ayodele specifically mentioned Senator Tokunbo Abiru, Gbenga Ashafa, and Seyi Tinubu, asserting that none of them would emerge as the state’s next governor.
He described the forthcoming governorship race as a fiercely competitive one, warning that many prominent aspirants would face crushing disappointments.
While some contenders are yet to formally declare their interest, the prophet observed that political maneuvering has already begun behind the scenes.
Addressing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Primate Ayodele advised Jide Adeniran, widely known as “Jandor,” to steer clear of the contest, stating unequivocally that his efforts would be futile. Likewise, he counseled Gbadebo Rhodes, the Labour Party’s candidate in the last election, to abandon any lingering aspirations of claiming the governorship seat.
In his own words: “The Lagos State governorship race in 2027 will be a tough one that will see some powerful people humiliated. Many of those who seem interested at the moment will be disappointed. I want to advise Tokunbo Abiru, Gbenga Ashafa, Seyi Tinubu, Jide Adeniran, and Gbadebo Rhodes not to bother themselves. They won’t become governor in 2027 if they attempt to contest. They shouldn’t allow people to push them to show interest; it won’t work.”
However, the cleric pointed to Hakeem Muri-Okunola, the current Principal Secretary to President Tinubu, as the most likely successor barring unforeseen circumstances.
He also issued a spiritual caution to Femi Gbajabiamila, warning him of intense opposition should he harbor similar ambitions.
“Unless things change, I see Hakeem Muri-Okunola taking the lead in the governorship race. If Femi Gbajabiamila has an ambition, only God can help him. He needs to seek the face of God because they will destroy his plans. They will fight him spiritually,” Ayodele declared.
Additionally, the prophet urged members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) in Lagos State to remain united, warning that the looming governorship contest could sow deep divisions within their ranks.
“I also want the GAC members to pray so that they won’t be divided. The 2027 governorship race in Lagos will divide them. Likewise, they should pray against bereavement,” he added.
As the political atmosphere in Lagos intensifies, Primate Ayodele’s predictions set the stage for what promises to be a tumultuous and unpredictable race to Alausa.