The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has denied allegations of defamation levelled against him by former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, over a recent political prophecy.
Kwankwaso was said to have taken exception to a prophecy by the cleric in which he allegedly predicted that the former governor would betray former Anambra State Governor, Peter Obi, in his presidential ambition.
Responding to the allegation, Primate Ayodele, through a statement issued by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, insisted that he had no intention of defaming the politician, stressing that his comments were based solely on a divine revelation.
The cleric maintained that his prophecies are not targeted at individuals and are never influenced by personal relationships, sentiments, or grievances.
According to him, he merely conveyed the message he received from God, as he has consistently done over the years, and did not make the statement to attack or malign Kwankwaso’s character.
“It has come to my attention that the former Governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has alleged that I wrongly accused him in my recent prophecy concerning his political ambition,” Ayodele said.
“I wish to state clearly that the purpose of my prophecies has never been to defame, malign, or attack anyone’s personality. I only speak based on what I receive from the throne of God.”
Ayodele further stated that he has never met Kwankwaso personally and has no reason to target him.
“I have never met Senator Kwankwaso, nor have I had any personal issues with him. Therefore, there is absolutely no reason for me to deliberately target or attack him. Just as I speak concerning every individual I am divinely directed to address, I spoke about him and his political aspirations based solely on the message I received,” he added.
The cleric expressed respect for the former governor, noting that his prophetic messages should not be interpreted as personal attacks.
He argued that the prophecy had been misunderstood and misrepresented by some individuals with vested political interests, leading to unnecessary controversy.
“For the sake of clarity, I would like to state that my message was greatly misunderstood and misrepresented by those interested in Kwankwaso’s political career. Sadly, even the politician misunderstood my statement and perceived it as a personal attack and an attempt to malign his character,” he said.
Ayodele maintained that the issue could have been resolved through dialogue, adding that he would have gladly provided clarification if approached.
He urged public figures mentioned in his prophecies to seek clarification before making accusations or issuing threats.
The cleric also cautioned against the manipulation of his videos and messages for political or personal purposes, warning that those found deliberately altering his statements to suit specific agendas would face appropriate action.
“I would appreciate it if individuals mentioned in my prophecies seek clarification before issuing threats or making accusations. I would also like to use this opportunity to warn those who manipulate my videos to serve personal, political, or selfish agendas. Such actions are misleading and unacceptable,” he stated.
