The Bayelsa State chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has reacted strongly to remarks attributed to popular cleric Elijah Babatunde Ayodele, describing the comments as unfortunate, unwarranted, and politically misleading.
In a statement issued at the weekend, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Prince Mack-Ake, said the NDC would ordinarily have ignored the remarks, especially as they came from a religious leader expected to focus on spiritual guidance rather than partisan political matters.
However, the party said it was compelled to set the record straight in the interest of the public.
According to the statement, it was regrettable that a cleric would choose to dabble into political commentary instead of concentrating on religious responsibilities, adding that such interventions could mislead unsuspecting members of the public.
The party maintained that it had no personal issues with Ayodele but would not sit back and allow what it described as misleading narratives to be promoted against a political movement that has existed for barely three weeks but has already attracted national attention.
The NDC explained that the party was founded on the principles of equity, fairness, justice, inclusiveness and the strengthening of democratic institutions in Nigeria.
It added that the platform had already begun to inspire hope among Nigerians, particularly young people searching for a credible alternative and a new direction in leadership.
The statement noted that the remarks credited to the cleric do not reflect the aspirations of Nigerians who believe in the NDC as a platform for positive transformation and responsible governance.
The party therefore urged Nigerians to treat the comments with caution, pointing out that several predictions previously attributed to Ayodele had failed to materialise.
Among the examples cited were claims that Kamala Harris would win the United States presidential election and another prediction that Nigerian football star Ademola Lookman would not perform well for the national team — developments the party said were contradicted by subsequent events.
Despite the controversy, the NDC said it remains focused on its mission of providing credible leadership and deepening democratic values in Nigeria.
The party disclosed that its online membership registration portal had already recorded more than one million registrations within a short period, describing the development as a clear indication of growing national acceptance.
The statement also referenced past controversies involving the cleric, including allegations linked to Adebayo Adelabu, noting that the matter was reported to the Department of State Services and is currently before the court.
According to the party, it would be inappropriate to comment further on the issue while the matter is still undergoing legal process.
The NDC reaffirmed its confidence in its national leader, Henry Seriake Dickson, describing him as a statesman who has demonstrated commitment to democratic values and effective representation in the National Assembly.
The party reiterated its commitment to building a stronger, fairer and more democratic Nigeria, expressing confidence that the NDC would play a decisive role in providing credible leadership in the 2027 general elections.
