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Cleric Identifies Tinubu's 'Strongest Pillar': Nyesom Wike as Kingmaker

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  Published in Politics and Government on Saturday, August 2nd 2025 at 20:44 GMT by legit
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2027 Election: Cleric Identifies Tinubu's Strongest Pillar as Kingmaker Who Carries the Crown

In the ever-evolving landscape of Nigerian politics, where alliances shift like sand dunes and prophecies often intermingle with political analysis, a prominent cleric has offered insights into the dynamics shaping the 2027 presidential election. Primate Elijah Ayodele, the founder and spiritual leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has emerged as a vocal commentator on national affairs, blending spiritual revelations with pointed observations on governance and leadership. In a recent statement that has sparked widespread discussion, Ayodele pinpointed a key figure whom he described as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's "strongest pillar" – a pillar so vital that it could determine the trajectory of Tinubu's political future. This individual, according to the cleric, is none other than Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and former Governor of Rivers State. Ayodele went further to characterize Wike as a "kingmaker" who "carries the crown," implying a profound influence that extends beyond mere support to the very essence of power consolidation.

To fully appreciate the weight of Ayodele's pronouncement, it's essential to contextualize Wike's role in Nigerian politics, particularly his relationship with Tinubu. Wike, a larger-than-life personality known for his fiery rhetoric and unyielding loyalty to his causes, rose to national prominence as the Governor of Rivers State from 2015 to 2023. During his tenure, he transformed the state's infrastructure, earning accolades for projects like road networks, bridges, and urban renewal initiatives. However, his political journey has been marked by controversy, including intra-party battles within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), where he was a key player. Wike's fallout with the PDP leadership, especially after losing the party's presidential ticket to Atiku Abubakar in the 2023 primaries, led to a dramatic pivot. Defying party lines, Wike openly supported Tinubu, the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in the 2023 general elections. This cross-party endorsement was instrumental in Tinubu's victory, particularly in the South-South region, where Wike's influence helped sway votes away from traditional PDP strongholds.

Ayodele's description of Wike as Tinubu's strongest pillar underscores this pivotal alliance. In his message, the cleric emphasized that Wike's support is not just tactical but foundational to Tinubu's administration. "Wike is the strongest pillar that Tinubu has," Ayodele stated emphatically. He elaborated that without Wike's backing, Tinubu's political structure could face significant vulnerabilities, especially as the 2027 elections loom. The cleric's words paint a picture of Wike as an indispensable ally, one whose political machinery in Rivers State and beyond provides a bulwark against opposition forces. Moreover, Ayodele highlighted Wike's kingmaker status, suggesting that he holds the metaphorical crown – the power to anoint or dethrone leaders. This imagery draws from historical and cultural notions of kingmakers in African societies, where certain individuals or elders wield influence over succession without necessarily occupying the throne themselves.

Delving deeper into Ayodele's prophecy, he warned of potential pitfalls that could undermine this alliance. The cleric advised Tinubu to be cautious of betrayals from within his circle, implying that not all supporters are as steadfast as Wike. "There are people around Tinubu who will betray him," Ayodele cautioned, urging the president to strengthen his inner circle and avoid complacency. He stressed the importance of maintaining harmony with Wike, noting that any rift could spell disaster for Tinubu's re-election bid. Ayodele's insights extend to broader political strategies, suggesting that Tinubu should focus on consolidating power in key regions, including the South-South and South-East, where Wike's influence is particularly strong. The cleric also touched on the economic challenges facing the nation, linking them to political stability. He argued that addressing issues like inflation, unemployment, and insecurity would be crucial for Tinubu to secure public support, with Wike playing a role in mobilizing grassroots efforts.

Wike's evolution into a kingmaker is a fascinating chapter in Nigeria's political narrative. Born in 1967 in Rumuepirikom, Rivers State, Wike's ascent began in local politics, serving as a local government chairman before becoming Chief of Staff to Governor Rotimi Amaechi and later Minister of State for Education under President Goodluck Jonathan. His governorship was characterized by bold confrontations, including legal battles over revenue allocation and environmental policies. Post-2023, as FCT Minister, Wike has continued his aggressive style, implementing rapid urban development projects in Abuja, such as road rehabilitations and slum clearances. Critics accuse him of authoritarian tendencies, while supporters praise his results-oriented approach. His defection-like support for Tinubu alienated him from the PDP, leading to his suspension from the party, but it elevated his status in the APC ecosystem. Ayodele's endorsement of Wike as a kingmaker resonates with this reality, as Wike has indeed shaped outcomes – from influencing gubernatorial races in Rivers to bolstering Tinubu's national campaign.

The implications of Ayodele's statement for the 2027 election are profound. Nigeria's political scene is already heating up, with opposition figures like Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi positioning themselves for another run. Tinubu, who assumed office in May 2023 amid economic reforms like fuel subsidy removal and naira floatation, faces mounting public discontent over rising living costs. In this context, Wike's role could be a game-changer. As a kingmaker, he might leverage his control over Rivers State's political apparatus to deliver votes, resources, and alliances. Ayodele suggested that Wike's influence extends to "carrying the crown," meaning he could facilitate Tinubu's path to a second term or even influence successor dynamics if needed. However, the cleric warned against over-reliance, advising Tinubu to diversify his support base and engage in inclusive governance.

Ayodele's prophecies are not new; he has a history of making bold predictions on Nigerian politics, some of which have come to pass, such as warnings about economic hardships and leadership changes. His church, based in Lagos, attracts followers seeking spiritual guidance on national issues, blending Pentecostalism with socio-political commentary. In this instance, his focus on Wike highlights the intersection of faith, politics, and power in Nigeria, where religious leaders often influence public opinion. Critics might dismiss such statements as mere speculation, but in a country where spirituality permeates daily life, they carry weight.

Looking ahead, the 2027 election promises to be a battleground of ideologies, regional interests, and personal ambitions. Tinubu's administration has prioritized infrastructure, security, and economic diversification, but challenges like banditry in the North and agitations in the South-East persist. Wike, as the strongest pillar, could help bridge these divides, perhaps by advocating for federal projects in his region or mediating conflicts. Ayodele urged Tinubu to heed divine counsel, emphasizing prayer and strategic alliances. "The crown is with Wike; he is the one who can make or mar," the cleric reiterated, underscoring the fragility of political power.

In conclusion, Primate Elijah Ayodele's identification of Nyesom Wike as President Tinubu's strongest pillar and a kingmaker who carries the crown adds a layer of intrigue to the buildup toward 2027. It serves as both a prophecy and a political analysis, reminding stakeholders of the intricate web of loyalties that define Nigerian democracy. Whether Wike will indeed prove indispensable remains to be seen, but his track record suggests he is a force to reckon with. As Nigeria navigates its democratic journey, figures like Wike embody the blend of charisma, strategy, and influence that can tip the scales in high-stakes elections. Tinubu would do well to nurture this alliance while preparing for the uncertainties ahead, ensuring that his pillar remains unshakable in the face of mounting opposition. This narrative not only captures the essence of current political discourse but also invites reflection on the roles of kingmakers in shaping the nation's future.