The leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has declared that Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, is a strong contender for the presidency after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s tenure.
In a statement released by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, Primate Ayodele advised Ribadu to begin repositioning and restructuring himself politically, warning that internal opposition especially from within the North and his own party, the APC could pose significant obstacles. He also cautioned that efforts may be made to create tension between Ribadu and President Tinubu.
The cleric revealed that around eight prominent northern figures will vie for the presidency, but Ribadu stands out as the most notable among them. Despite this, he predicted that Ribadu would face internal sabotage, even from allies and people he has previously supported.
“Nuhu Ribadu has the potential to be Nigeria’s next president, but the road ahead won’t be easy,” Ayodele said. “There will be attempts to sideline him as NSA, and some of his northern allies will turn against him. He must be strategic and vigilant.”
Ayodele emphasized that Ribadu’s political success will heavily depend on women, urging him to align with their causes and avoid conflicts with female political aspirants. “As strange as it may sound, his breakthrough will come through women. If he opposes them, it will cost him dearly. Women will play a pivotal role in his path to leadership,” he said.
The cleric also advised Ribadu not to repeat mistakes from his failed bid for governorship, warning that marrying outside his ethnic group could complicate his political journey.
“He must win his state for APC in 2027 to stay relevant,” Ayodele added. “He has many enemies, but women are the key to his political destiny. It’s going to be a tough battle.”
