Primate Babatunde Elijah Ayodele, founder of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church in Lagos, has condemned the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as a political ploy with no future. He warned potential members against joining the party, which was formed in early 2026.
Ayodele's Warning on NDC
In a statement released on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, through his media aide Osho Oluwatosin, the cleric described the NDC as a political set-up created for a hidden agenda. He cautioned that individuals who rush into the party may eventually regret their decision.
According to Ayodele, the NDC lacks seriousness and will not make any meaningful political impact. He stated: “NDC as a party cannot really go far; it is a party of political errand boys. It is not a serious political party, and people who have rushed themselves there will eventually regret it. The party is a political set-up programmed to capture politicians.”
The preacher further maintained that the party has no political future and will not stand the test of time. He added: “NDC will not last long; it is a party that has no political future. I pity those who have pitched their tents in the party; it is a trap.”
Opposition Unity Essential for 2027
Ayodele also emphasized that opposition politicians coming together under one umbrella remains the only viable way to unseat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He noted that the NDC was formed to accommodate certain politicians for the 2027 elections but lacks the structure for long-term success.
The NDC is a political party founded in 2026 by former Bayelsa Governor Seriake Dickson. Its chieftains claim it was established in response to widespread demand for disciplined governance, long-term national planning, and institutional accountability. Current members include Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, both of whom ran in the 2023 presidential election. Obi is the NDC's 2027 presidential candidate.
Obi and Kwankwaso joined the NDC from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the party of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Atiku recently emerged as the ADC's flagbearer for the 2027 presidential poll.
Previous Predictions and Defections
Ayodele had earlier warned that the NDC would not achieve any meaningful success in future elections. He stated: “In the coming election, even if the person who owns it contests under the party, he will fail. The party will not make any tangible achievement in 2027.”
Meanwhile, Senator Victor Umeh representing Anambra Central formally announced his defection from the ADC to the NDC, citing prolonged internal disputes and unending litigation within his former party. In his letter, Umeh said he made the decision after wide consultations with his family, constituents, and supporters.
The NDC has seen a series of defections, including from ADC members, as the 2027 elections approach. However, Ayodele's prophecy casts doubt on the party's longevity and effectiveness.
