Primate Ayodele Sounds Alarm on Terrorism Financing Within Nigerian Government
Primate Babatunde Elijah Ayodele, the leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church in Lagos, has issued a stark warning to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu regarding the sources of terrorism financing in Nigeria. In a statement released on Friday, January 23, 2026, through his media aide Osho Oluwatosin, the cleric asserted that individuals funding and supporting terrorist activities are embedded within the country's military and are closely connected to the seat of power.
Serious Allegations Against Military and Government Circles
Ayodele emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that terrorism financiers are not external actors but are operating from within Nigeria's own institutions. He specifically addressed President Tinubu, highlighting that these individuals are part of the decision-making circles. The cleric urged the government to demonstrate seriousness in combating this internal threat, warning that failure to do so could have severe consequences for both national stability and the president's political future.
"There are people funding them (terrorists), and they are within the military and the seat of power," Ayodele declared. "They are part of those taking decision with you."
Specific Geographic Focus and Urgent Recommendations
The spiritual leader identified several regions requiring concentrated security attention, including Bauchi, Katsina, Adamawa, Taraba, Kano, Lokoja, Abuja, and Ondo State. He called for comprehensive nationwide involvement in security efforts, arguing that without broad participation, containing the spread of insecurity would prove difficult.
Ayodele recommended enhanced surveillance measures, particularly advocating for the deployment of surveillance helicopters along highways and in remote bush areas. He stressed that the matter demands immediate and serious attention from all levels of government.
Commendation for Military Efforts with Stern Warning
While acknowledging the Nigerian military's efforts in combating terrorism, Ayodele lamented the persistent and stubborn nature of terrorist enemies who aim to destabilize the government. He expressed particular concern about alleged plans to attack Christian communities as a strategy to undermine the current administration.
The cleric urged decisive action against terrorists, calling for their elimination to serve as a deterrent to others plotting similar havoc. "You know where they are, don't spare them for any reason," he advised. "Kill them as they are killing people, and anyone negotiating with terrorists should be arrested."
Imminent Threat Timeline and Political Implications
Ayodele warned of potentially devastating attacks planned for February and March 2026, urging President Tinubu to heed security reports with utmost seriousness. He cautioned that the security battle could prove costly, potentially affecting the president's prospects for a second term if not properly addressed.
The cleric called for coordinated action between federal and state authorities, recommending that governors work closely with security reports to prevent escalation of violence. He emphasized that the government must deploy all available machinery to address what he described as a serious and imminent threat to national security.
This warning comes amid broader concerns about Nigeria's security landscape and follows previous prophecies and statements from Primate Ayodele regarding political developments in the country. The cleric's allegations highlight ongoing challenges in Nigeria's counter-terrorism efforts and raise questions about internal complicity in sustaining security threats.
