Alleged defamation: My prophecies divine, not personal attacks, says Primate Ayodele

The leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has rejected allegations that he defamed former Kano State governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, insisting that his comments were based solely on what he described as divine revelation.

Ayodele’s response followed a legal threat issued by Kwankwaso over a recent prophecy in which the cleric suggested that the former presidential candidate could betray former Anambra State governor, Peter Obi, in the lead-up to future political developments.

In a statement released through his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, on Thursday, the cleric maintained that his remarks were never intended to tarnish the politician’s image, stressing that his prophetic messages are not influenced by personal feelings or political considerations.

According to him, he has no personal relationship with Kwankwaso and therefore had no reason to target or malign him.

“I only communicate the messages God reveals to me. My prophecies are not designed to defame, attack or discredit any individual,” he said.

Ayodele explained that he delivers prophetic messages whenever he believes he has received divine direction, regardless of the personality involved. He added that the statement concerning Kwankwaso’s political future was no exception.

The cleric further expressed surprise that the prophecy had generated controversy, arguing that it was misinterpreted by supporters and associates of the former governor.

He said a request for clarification could have prevented the disagreement, noting that the message was never meant as an attack on Kwankwaso’s character.

Ayodele also described the former Kano governor as someone he holds in high regard, reiterating that his prophecies are neither motivated by personal interests nor by existing relationships.

He warned against the manipulation of his sermons and videos for political or personal purposes, saying such actions often distort the original meaning of his messages.

The cleric urged public figures who may feel concerned about his prophecies to seek clarification before making accusations or issuing threats, adding that anyone found deliberately altering his messages for ulterior motives could face appropriate action.