“Tinubu Has Done Better Than Buhari and Jonathan, but Nigerians Hate Him” — Primate Ayodele

The Leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has said President Bola Tinubu has outperformed his predecessors, Muhammadu Buhari and Goodluck Jonathan, but remains unpopular with many Nigerians.

Speaking to journalists in Lagos on Sunday, Ayodele argued that Tinubu’s administration has delivered measurable improvements, particularly in infrastructure, yet continues to face public resistance.

He said the president’s political challenges stem partly from those within his inner circle, alleging that some associates do not support his potential second-term bid in 2027. According to the cleric, Tinubu needs to review his strategy and adjust his policy direction ahead of the next general election.

Ayodele cited ongoing road projects as evidence of progress, pointing to reduced travel time along key coastal routes, including areas around Ajah and toward Calabar. He maintained that such developments demonstrate stronger performance compared to previous administrations.

On the 2027 elections, Ayodele predicted a more intense political climate than in 2023. He said several governors and members of state assemblies and the House of Representatives may struggle to secure re-election without electoral malpractice.

He also suggested that voter turnout would increase significantly, describing the next general election as a turning point driven by public determination.

The cleric further criticised the leadership of the Independent National Electoral Commission, stating that public dissatisfaction would persist regardless of the commission’s efforts. He questioned the feasibility of the announced election timetable and hinted that adjustments could occur before the polls.

Ayodele concluded that the political environment leading into 2027 would test both incumbents and electoral authorities amid heightened public scrutiny.