Bayo Adelabu petitions DSS over Primate Ayodele’s N150m demand for spiritual intercession

The Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has formally petitioned the Department of State Services over an alleged demand of N150 million by Primate Elijah Ayodele for what was described as spiritual intercession. According to a report by TheCable, Adelabu accused the cleric of repeatedly contacting him and his associates with requests for money under the guise of prayers and prophetic intervention. The petition was submitted after the minister said he ignored several messages and calls before the matter escalated.

In the petition, Adelabu stated that Primate Ayodele initially requested N100 million, which was later increased to N150 million. He alleged that the demand was linked to promises of spiritual protection and success. The minister said he found the request inappropriate and disturbing, particularly given his position as a public office holder. He reportedly included details of messages and intermediaries used to reach him as part of the complaint submitted to the DSS.

Primate Ayodele, founder of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has denied the allegation. He claimed that he never demanded money from Adelabu and insisted that any communication attributed to him was either misunderstood or falsely represented. The cleric said his ministry does not charge politicians or public figures for prayers and maintained that he has always offered spiritual guidance without financial conditions.

The DSS has not made any public statement on the petition or confirmed whether an investigation has commenced. The development has sparked public debate about the intersection of religion, politics, and accountability in Nigeria, especially regarding claims of spiritual influence over public office holders. What is your view on this allegation and the broader issue of religious figures engaging with politicians? Share your thoughts in the comments section.

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