“Bargaining for One Term Is a Sign of Desperation and Won’t Work,” Anglican Archbishop Tells Politicians

The Archbishop of Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province and Bishop of Ibadan North (Anglican) Diocese, Right Reverend Williams Aladekugbe, has sharply criticized politicians who are already focusing on the 2027 general election, calling their behavior desperate and counterproductive. Speaking at the final farewell service for the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, Archbishop Aladekugbe condemned politicians bargaining for only one term in office, describing it as a clear sign of desperation that will not resonate with Nigerians.

He also faulted leaders who participate in acts such as carrying plates and serving food at parties, labeling these gestures as further signs of political desperation that will ultimately fail. The Archbishop expressed deep concern that while the President Bola Tinubu administration is tasked with addressing Nigeria’s many pressing challenges, some politicians are already preoccupied with electioneering, which he called a disgrace to governance and a reckless disregard for the people’s mandate.

Highlighting the hardships facing Nigerians, including rising poverty and recent increases in telecommunications tariffs, Aladekugbe said these policies reflect insensitivity and a disconnect from the realities of the populace. He urged politicians to focus on good governance and serving the people instead of premature political scheming.

The Archbishop also spoke on the worsening security situation in Nigeria, lamenting the frequent killings caused by bandits, herdsmen, and other criminal groups across the North, Middle Belt, and South regions. He appealed to President Tinubu to intensify efforts to end the insecurity by improving intelligence gathering and strengthening security forces.

In closing, Archbishop Aladekugbe pledged the Church’s continued prayers for all levels of government while calling on elected officials to prioritize the welfare and safety of Nigerians over political ambitions ahead of 2027.