By Vera Wisdom-Bassey
Primate Elijah Ayodele, leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has shared a series of prophecies for Nigeria during a press conference on December 20, 2024. Addressing the nation’s political, economic, and social challenges, he emphasized the need for collective efforts to overcome these issues. Among his predictions was a strong call for a coalition to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections, warning that no single party or candidate could achieve this feat alone.
Ayodele stated unequivocally that a united front of opposition parties is necessary to challenge Tinubu’s grip on power effectively. “One party cannot remove him from power. Atiku cannot do it alone, and Obi cannot do it alone. Only a strong coalition can succeed,” he said. He added that once such a coalition is formed, he would provide spiritual guidance to identify the most suitable candidate to lead the charge.
The cleric also delved into economic matters, predicting more hardship for Nigerians in 2025. He warned that the exchange rate of the Naira against the Dollar could skyrocket to N1400, causing severe economic distress. “The economy will be so challenging that it will seem as though invisible forces are frustrating the Tinubu-led administration, but they will not succeed,” Ayodele stated. He noted that reviving the economy would require immense effort and urged Nigerians to prepare for difficult times.
On the subject of inflation, Ayodele highlighted the dire state of Nigeria’s economy, with the current inflation rate at 33%, the highest in the country’s history. He expressed skepticism about the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) ability to achieve significant improvements in the near future. “The situation will worsen despite their efforts,” he said, emphasizing that Nigeria’s problems require more than prayers. “Prayers alone will not solve our problems; we need practical solutions and disciplined actions,” he remarked.
Touching on the political tension in the Southeast, the cleric predicted the unconditional release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Ayodele believes Kanu’s release would lead to the end of the “Monday sit-at-home” protests that have paralyzed economic activities in the region. However, he dismissed the possibility of Kanu achieving his goal of actualizing Biafra.
The prophet also addressed the pressing issue of youth unemployment and its link to the rise in cybercrime. He called on the government to take deliberate steps to create job opportunities for young Nigerians, arguing that employment is a critical tool in reducing criminal activities.
Ayodele’s prophecies extended beyond politics and the economy, encompassing various sectors, including companies and ministries. He described 2025 as a year of reckoning for Nigeria, urging the government and citizens to act decisively in tackling the country’s challenges.
Reflecting on the state of the nation, the cleric reiterated his earlier call for obedience and collective discipline among Nigerians. “If we are obedient and follow the recipes for progress, we can overcome,” he said. However, he warned that complacency would lead to prolonged suffering and stagnation.
The press conference also served as a platform for Ayodele to unveil a new book of prophecies, which he said was the result of a period of deep communion with God. He emphasized that his warnings were not meant to incite fear but to prepare Nigerians for the realities ahead and guide them toward constructive solutions.
Primate Ayodele’s remarks have stirred debate among political analysts and citizens alike, particularly his assertion that President Tinubu can only be defeated through a coalition. With the 2027 elections still years away, his prediction raises questions about the strategies opposition parties might adopt to challenge the incumbent administration.
Economists and financial experts have also weighed in on his forecast of a worsening exchange rate and inflation. While some view his predictions as a reflection of the current economic trajectory, others argue that policy adjustments and reforms could mitigate the challenges he foresees.
As Nigerians grapple with these prophecies, Ayodele’s call for action underscores the need for unity, resilience, and strategic planning. His message serves as both a warning and a wake-up call, urging leaders and citizens to take proactive steps in addressing the nation’s challenges. Whether his predictions will come to pass remains to be seen, but they undoubtedly highlight the pressing need for transformative leadership and collective effort in shaping Nigeria’s future.
With the new year fast approaching, Ayodele’s prophecies have set the tone for what many anticipate will be a critical period in Nigeria’s history. The coming months will reveal whether the country can rise above its challenges or succumb to the difficulties foretold.