Primate Elijah Ayodele, leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has warned President Bola Tinubu that widespread hardship in Nigeria is being downplayed by people around him and could hurt his political fortunes if not addressed.

The cleric made the remarks in a video circulated widely on social media on Friday, August 7, 2026, urging the President to listen to those willing to tell him the truth about the country’s situation.

‘Tinubu, There Is Hardship’

Addressing the President directly, Ayodele said, “Tinubu there is hardship, Tinubu your work is being frustrated, Tinubu they are deceiving you.”

He alleged that people who could give Tinubu an honest assessment of the country were being prevented from reaching him.

“The people that will tell you the truth, they won’t allow you to listen to them and this is going to be the beginning of your political end,” he said.

Cleric Urges Tinubu to Accept Truth

Ayodele urged the President not to reject criticism or uncomfortable information about the economy.

“Don’t say no to the truth, say the truth, say the truth for you to be able to fly again,” he added.

The cleric said advisers who shield the President from the realities faced by Nigerians could undermine efforts to address the economic difficulties affecting households.

Warning Comes Amid Economic Pressure

The comments come amid continued public debate over the cost of living and the impact of the Tinubu administration’s economic reforms.

Ayodele has previously made public comments on Nigeria’s economy, insecurity and governance, often urging the government to respond to challenges facing citizens.

The latest video was amplified by social media accounts including Instablog9ja, while Daily Post Nigeria also reported the remarks.

No immediate response from the Presidency was reported over Ayodele’s latest warning.