A former National Treasurer of the Labour Party, Oluchi Oparah, has sharply criticised Primate Elijah Ayodele over comments in a viral video where the cleric declared that Igbos are “cursed” and incapable of producing a Nigerian president, “even with a thousand Peter Obis.”
The video, which has been widely circulated across social media platforms, shows the spiritual leader making sweeping claims that the Igbo ethnic group is responsible for Nigeria’s problems, while exonerating other regions of any wrongdoing.
Oparah: Ayodele’s Statements Are Dangerous and Divisive
Reacting to the video, Oparah condemned Ayodele’s remarks as “embarrassing, reckless, and unbecoming of someone who claims to stand on God’s altar.”
She warned that the cleric’s so-called prophecies promote ethnic hostility and undermine national unity.
According to her, religious leaders carry a moral mandate to speak with truth, justice, and compassion — not to push narratives that stigmatise an entire tribe.
“Your constant attacks on the Igbo people and your careless prophecies that promote tribal hostility have become embarrassing and completely unbecoming. A man of God should speak truth, justice, and compassion, not hatred or political propaganda disguised as prophecy,” she stated.
Clergy’s Points: Focus on Peace, Responsibility, and Moral Leadership
Oparah outlined several areas where she believes Ayodele has failed in his duty as a spiritual leader:
- Failure to address national suffering:
She condemned his focus on divisive rhetoric rather than speaking against hunger, insecurity, and the widespread suffering caused by banditry and economic hardship. - Neglect of prophetic responsibility:
Oparah argued that a true prophet should defend the oppressed, call out injustice, and demand accountability — not heap blame on an ethnic group that has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s unity and economy. - Encouragement of political neutrality:
She urged Ayodele to leave the pulpit and openly join politics if he is more interested in political commentary than spiritual guidance.
“If politics excites you so much, then stop pretending. Resign from the altar and declare your political ambition openly. Do not hide behind prophecy to push dangerous rhetoric that threatens national unity,” she said.
A Call for Responsible Religious Leadership
Oparah added that Nigerians are increasingly weary of religious figures who manipulate followers with fear, twist scripture for political motives, and deepen social divisions.
She warned that Ayodele’s repeated targeting of the Igbo people contributes to the very crises he claims to foresee.
“A true man of God builds peace. A true prophet defends the oppressed. A true spiritual leader carries responsibility — not tribal bitterness,” she said.
She concluded with a direct charge to the cleric:
“Choose your path — speak as a true messenger of God or step into politics like every other politician. This mixing of prophecy with tribalism must end.”
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