By Paul Joseph
The Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Elijah Ayodele, has cautioned former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi against entering into a political alliance with Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, warning that such a partnership could undermine Obi’s chances of securing Nigeria’s presidency in 2027.
In a statement issued through his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, on Friday, Ayodele expressed concern over what he described as Obi’s growing political desperation and his alleged inability to properly evaluate the motives of those surrounding him.
The cleric claimed that the former Anambra State governor was gradually aligning himself with political figures whose ambitions may not be compatible with his own presidential aspirations. He further alleged that Obi was overlooking critical signs that could shape his political future ahead of the next general election.
According to Ayodele, Kwankwaso remains focused on advancing his personal political interests and may not be fully committed to supporting Obi’s presidential project should both men eventually find themselves in the same political coalition.
He warned that any alliance between the two politicians could become a major setback if not carefully managed, arguing that competing interests and individual ambitions often weaken opposition coalitions at crucial moments.
“Kwankwaso is focused on his own political calculations and may not ultimately stand behind Obi’s ambition,” Ayodele stated, adding that any partnership lacking genuine commitment and trust could collapse when it matters most.
Despite his criticism, the cleric insisted that his comments were not intended as an attack on Obi. He described the former Labour Party flagbearer as courageous, determined and resilient, but maintained that he still needed a deeper understanding of Nigeria’s complex political landscape.
Ayodele further predicted that the true intentions of political actors currently engaging in coalition talks would eventually become evident, cautioning that a failed alliance at a critical stage could significantly damage Obi’s presidential prospects.
The warning comes amid growing speculation over possible opposition realignments and coalition discussions ahead of the 2027 presidential election, as major political figures continue consultations aimed at challenging the ruling establishment.

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