The leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has claimed that President Bola Tinubu is planning to replace Vice-President Kashim Shettima ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
In a statement signed by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, Primate Ayodele reiterated his warning to Tinubu against adopting a Muslim–Muslim ticket, noting that ignoring the advice could lead to Shettima’s removal from office.
He warned that an acrimonious removal of the vice-president could negatively affect the ruling party, as Shettima might work against its interests.
“I warned Tinubu against a Muslim–Muslim ticket, but most people did not listen. If Shettima is removed acrimoniously, he will work against the interests of the party because they are contemplating picking a governor to replace him as vice-president,” Ayodele said.
The cleric also cautioned Tinubu against selecting any of the governors who recently defected to the party, particularly from the north, warning that such a move could trigger political tension in the region.
“If any of the decamping governors from the north is picked, it will cause aggression in the region,” he warned.
Speaking further, Primate Ayodele acknowledged that Tinubu is making efforts in governance but said his administration is being challenged by betrayal and nemesis. He also warned the president about the alleged involvement of the United States in Nigeria’s security architecture.
“Tinubu is working and doing well, but two things are fighting him — nemesis and betrayal. Some of those applauding him are secretly working for his downfall. Money cannot stop it.
“Some aides are also blocking access to people who can genuinely help him.
“On insecurity, no matter the security formation you put in place, the United States does not like your government. They know where to puncture it because they already understand the secrets of Nigeria’s security system,” he added.
