Where ADC stands as Primate Ayodele predicts NDC can’t win 2027 presidency

*Jonathan on the ballot will make huge impact but let him not contest – Ayodele

By KEMI KASUMU

“NDC cannot win the presidency in 2027,” said the primate. The cleric’s comments came alongside his remarks on the rising visibility of the ADC, which he described as a political force gradually gaining public attention and influence.

Fresh political predictions by Primate Ayodele, the spiritual leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church located in Oke Afa, Isolo, have stirred debate within political circles after he declared that the National Democratic Congress (NDC) would not win the 2027 presidential election.

It will recalled that the primate has unequivocally claimed how the North, which determines success or otherwise of any political group in Nigeria’s electrical process, are done with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his political party the All Progressives Congress (APC) and so will work against him in the coming election.

He added that even members of Tinubu’s own APC in that region will work for him to fail, thus paving the way for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to shine as a party, which is the political direction the region has chosen and has settled for, regardless of whatever political manipulations through the courts to stop it from being on the ballot.

Speaking during a church programme at the ministry’s headquarters in Lagos, according to a video circulating on the social media, Primate Ayodele said the political climate ahead of the next presidential contest appears unfavorable for the NDC, insisting that the party has yet to position itself as a strong alternative capable of reclaiming power.

“NDC cannot win the presidency in 2027,” said the primate.

The cleric’s comments came alongside his remarks on the rising visibility of the ADC, which he described as a political force gradually gaining public attention and influence. According to him, the ADC’s growing acceptance among citizens reflects increasing dissatisfaction with traditional political establishments and a desire for new political directions.

“The ADC’s star is shining gradually,” Primate Ayodele had reportedly stated. “People are beginning to embrace alternative political voices, and the NDC, as it stands now, is not in the right position to secure victory in 2027.”

He explained that modern electoral politics is increasingly driven by performance, credibility, and the ability of parties to connect with the realities facing ordinary citizens. Ayodele argued that opposition parties can no longer rely solely on criticizing ruling governments but must present practical solutions and inspire public confidence through strategic leadership.

The INRI Church leader also predicted that the political atmosphere leading to the 2027 elections would witness major shifts, including the emergence of smaller parties, changing alliances, and unexpected political realignments capable of altering the traditional balance of power.

According to him, many voters are becoming more politically conscious and are now paying closer attention to issues such as economic stability, governance, youth empowerment, and national development rather than merely following party loyalty.

Political analysts say the statement reflects the growing uncertainty surrounding future electoral dynamics and the increasing conversation about whether alternative political platforms can challenge dominant opposition and ruling parties in upcoming elections.

Supporters of the ADC have since welcomed the remarks, describing them as further evidence of the party’s growing relevance in national politics. However, loyalists of the NDC dismissed the prediction, insisting the party still possesses strong grassroots structures and enough time to reorganize ahead of the 2027 presidential race.

Jonathan will get international backing but should not contest

Primate Babatunde Elijah Ayodele has also cautioned former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan against contesting the 2027 presidential election, warning that such a political move could damage his reputation and legacy.

Speaking during a church service, the leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church said Jonathan should avoid pressure from political allies urging him to return to active presidential politics.

According to Ayodele, the former president remains widely respected locally and internationally, and attempting another presidential bid may expose him to unnecessary political battles and public criticism.

He advised Jonathan to focus on his statesman role, peace advocacy, and international engagements rather than participating in what he described as an increasingly complex political environment ahead of the 2027 elections.

However, Primate Ayodele, in a statement signed by his media aide Osho Oluwatosin, dud not mean that Jonathan participating in the election will not make its own notable impact expected in a democracy.

Mentioning earlier  that Jonathan’s coming on board will shake the All Progressives Congress (APC), the cleric maintained that his candidacy will shift the political setting in the country, but asked him to take caution.

“Former President Goodluck Jonathan will be good on the ballot, but his prestigious image may be stained. If truly he wants to contest, it will be tough for every candidate, including President Tinubu, but he must be very careful.”

He noted that the former president is afraid and indecisive; however, he urged him to be courageous in anything he wants to do and prepare for what is coming ahead because, according to him, it will not be an easy journey for him.

“Jonathan’s candidacy will shock a lot of people, but he is scared. He must be courageous because the journey isn’t for the faint-hearted. If that is what he wants to do, he must be brave; it will not be an easy thing for him.”

Also, he stated that Jonathan will get international backing and sponsors.

“Jonathan will get international backing and sponsors if he decides to contest. Regardless, it won’t be easy for him.”