2027 Election Won’t Be A Baby Election; Yilwada’s Emergence Will Affect APC’s Victory- Ayodele

Primate Elijah Ayodele, leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has described the 2027 general election as a turning point for Nigeria, highlighting its significance for the nation’s future.

According to a report by the Nigerian Tribune on July 28, 2025, Ayodele warned that the upcoming poll would be far from ordinary and could play a key role in determining the country’s unity and stability. In a statement delivered through his media aide, Ayodele emphasized that political parties, particularly the All Progressives Congress (APC), must prepare for intense political challenges. He suggested that the 2027 election will test the strength and strategies of all parties involved, urging them not to underestimate its potential consequences.

The cleric addressed the recent emergence of Nentawe Yilwatda as the APC’s national chairman, noting that while he is seen as intelligent and strategic, these qualities alone may not be enough to lead the party to success. Ayodele warned that Yilwatda would need to be both spiritually and mentally resilient to withstand the pressure and hidden forces that may seek to undermine him.

Ayodele also pointed out that internal issues within the APC could pose significant threats under Yilwatda’s leadership. He stressed that the party must rally strong support around him and prioritize grassroots mobilisation to counter the looming challenges. According to him, isolated leadership will not be sufficient to secure victory in such a high-stakes election

The spiritual leader expressed concern that if the APC fails to act decisively and engage with the wider public, it may struggle to perform well in 2027. He believes that the stakes are high and that failure to address party conflicts and external attacks could weaken the APC’s electoral prospects.

Finally, Ayodele reiterated that the 2027 election should not be taken lightly. He warned that its outcome could deeply impact Nigeria’s political cohesion and national identity. He urged political actors, especially those within the APC, to pay close attention to the signs and take urgent steps to prepare for what he described as a critical national moment.

‎“The 2027 election won’t be a baby election; it will determine a whole lot of things like the unity of the country, and the chairman must be supernaturally endowed on all sides because they can use anything to take him out. He must be able to address party issues because there will be different attacks. Yilwatda’s emergence will affect APC’s victory,” he said.