THIS DAWN — Evangelist Primate Elijah Ayodele has denied laying a curse against the Igbo people.
Primate Ayodele came under fire following remarks he made about the Igbo ethnic group, claiming there is a “curse” hindering their presidential ambitions.
The comment, which has been widely circulated online, has drawn strong criticism from political and civil society actors, as well as calls for unity and national cohesion.
In a public clarification, Ayodele said his original statement was “grossly misunderstood and misinterpreted.”
He insisted his remarks do not reflect hatred toward the Igbo people or support for the current administration.
According to him, the prophecy was intended not as an attack, but as a solution.
He said it is a spiritual warning meant to guide the Igbo toward a path of “cleansing” so they can reclaim their political power, especially with the 2027 presidential election in view.
“There has never been a time when my messages or prophecies expressed hatred for any tribe… I love everyone regardless of their background,” Ayodele said.
He noted that his church comprises members from multiple ethnicities, emphasizing his commitment to inclusion.
Ayodele added that he is not opposed to an Igbo presidency.
Rather, he claims to have shared “the secret of cleansing the tribe of the curse” blocking their progress.
“God has sent me to deliver his message; he has also provided a solution…
“It’s left for them to either follow or reject it,” he said in a statement signed by his media aide.
Reactions Begin to Pour In
The controversy has prompted sharp condemnation across the political spectrum.
Oluchi Oparah, former National Treasurer of the Labour Party, called Ayodele’s remarks “embarrassing, reckless, and unbecoming of someone who claims to speak for God.”
She accused him of sowing ethnic division under the guise of prophecy and warned against the misuse of religious platforms for political ends.
Labour Party leaders argue that religious authority should promote unity, not tribal bitterness.
Oparah added, “A true man of God builds peace … not tribal hatred disguised as prophecy.”
Political Context and Fallout
Critics say Ayodele’s statements could inflame ethnic tensions ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 elections.
Some point out that this is not the first time he has made controversial political prophecies.
In the past, he has reportedly warned that Igbos would never produce a president.
He also questioned the electoral viability of prominent Igbo politicians such as Peter Obi.
Others argue that his remarks are part of a broader pattern: using prophecy to influence political narratives and appeal to religious followers.
Given Ayodele’s significant influence among evangelical Christians, political analysts expressed serious concern.
They worried that his “spiritual cleansing” message could be seen by some as a spiritual endorsement or political manipulation.
Ayodele’s Defense
In his defense, Ayodele says he has no tribal bias and that his goal is spiritual.
He reiterated that his warning comes with a solution: for the Igbo people to follow his prophetic instructions if they want to break what he calls the curse.
He also urged his critics to engage with his message seriously.
He said that focusing instead on vilifying him risks missing the “divine steps” he claims could reconcile political ambition and spiritual destiny.
As the controversy intensifies, political commentators say it could deepen ethnic tensions at a delicate time in Nigeria’s democratic process.
The coming days may determine whether Ayodele’s message spurs genuine spiritual reflection or further division.
They will also determine whether his prophetic influence will translate into political sway ahead of the 2027 election cycle.
Watch Ayodele recant in a video clip on his “X” handle.
