The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has issued a warning to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alleging that US President Donald Trump is plotting to remove him from office. In a statement released on Sunday through his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, the cleric claimed that the support provided by the United States in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity is part of a larger plan to penetrate the government and undermine the presidency.
Primate Ayodele, a well-known spiritual figure in Nigeria, said that Trump has “caged” President Tinubu and is determined to see him removed. “Trump is adamant to remove President Tinubu. America will be part of those who will be against Tinubu. You may not see it as I am being shown, and that’s why I am saying Trump is after removing Tinubu, that’s it and nothing more,” the cleric said.
He further alleged that the United States’ involvement in Nigeria’s security challenges is not motivated by a desire to help the country. According to Ayodele, Trump’s primary goal is political, aimed at weakening Tinubu’s administration. “Nigeria will still continue to fight insecurity, but either they fight it or not, Trump is focused on removing Tinubu from office, but he doesn’t know it yet. He isn’t after ending insecurity in the country, he knows what he wants and won’t stop at nothing towards achieving it,” he said.
In recent months, the US has increased its cooperation with Nigeria in tackling terrorism, banditry, and other security challenges. The support has included intelligence sharing, logistical assistance, and training programs for the Nigerian Armed Forces and law enforcement agencies.
“Tinubu must take a very bold step to overcome the plans of Trump because he has caged him already. Tinubu must not relent his efforts and bring up strategies for him to succeed otherwise, he would be at the losing end while his defeat would be celebrated,” the cleric stated.
Primate Elijah Ayodele is one of Nigeria’s most influential spiritual leaders, known for his prophetic statements and involvement in national issues. He has, in the past, made predictions on political events, elections, and national security matters. His opinions often attract media attention and spark public debate, particularly on matters involving the Nigerian presidency and national governance.
Nigeria and the United States have maintained a long-standing relationship, particularly in the areas of trade, security, and diplomacy. Over the years, the US has provided support to Nigeria in the fight against terrorism, most notably against Boko Haram in the Northeast, and in tackling banditry and kidnappings across other regions.
However, Ayodele’s comments suggest a mistrust of foreign involvement in domestic politics, a sentiment shared by some political observers in Nigeria. These observers note that while foreign support can strengthen national security, it can also lead to perceptions of interference or influence in domestic political affairs.
In his warning, Primate Ayodele advised President Tinubu to take decisive and strategic steps to counter the alleged plot. The cleric emphasized that inaction could result in political defeat and public humiliation for the administration.
“Tinubu must not relent his efforts and bring up strategies for him to succeed; otherwise, he would be at the losing end while his defeat would be celebrated,” Ayodele warned.
Ayodele’s warning has sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians. Some citizens expressed agreement with the cleric, suggesting that foreign powers sometimes have hidden agendas that could affect national leadership. Others dismissed the statement as speculative, arguing that it was based on unverified spiritual insights rather than concrete evidence.
Social media platforms have become a key outlet for discussion, with Nigerians debating the implications of the statement. Political commentators have also weighed in, highlighting the need for transparency, accountability, and strategic policymaking to safeguard national interests.
Nigeria is currently facing multiple security and political challenges, including banditry in the Northwest, insurgency in the Northeast, and rising public concern over governance and leadership. The federal government has engaged in various security measures, partnering with local and international agencies to combat these threats.