The Leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has condemned Nigerian politicians over the recent kidnapping of schoolchildren and principals in Oyo State, describing their attitude toward insecurity as “heartless” and “satanic.”
In a statement released through his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, the cleric expressed outrage over the incident, blaming political leaders, parts of the security system, and some religious figures for failing to prevent repeated tragedies across the country.
Ayodele also questioned Nigeria’s security architecture, asking why repeated warnings about impending attacks are often ignored by authorities.
He said Nigeria would have recorded better results if it operated like more developed countries, adding that the current system appears unresponsive to divine warnings and expert advice.
According to him, “Our politicians are heartless and satanic to the nation, and nemesis will eventually catch up with them.”
He further criticised clerics who, according to him, have aligned too closely with government, accusing them of failing to speak truth to power when necessary.
The prophet also expressed disappointment in security agencies, saying warnings are often neglected until tragedies occur.
He added that the situation is “a shame” to major religious bodies in the country, including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), for not doing enough to pressure the government on security concerns.
Ayodele warned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take urgent steps to address insecurity, saying failure to do so could damage his administration’s credibility and political future.
He also criticised Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, for attending a political event shortly after the incident, describing it as insensitive given the circumstances.
The cleric further warned that continued insecurity, especially if the abducted children are not rescued safely, could have serious political consequences for the presidency.
He called on religious leaders across the country to intensify prayers and take stronger advocacy roles, insisting he had personally issued multiple warnings about possible attacks in Oyo State that were not acted upon.
