The Archbishop of the Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province and Bishop of Ibadan North Diocese (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Williams Aladekugbe, has expressed his disapproval over the growing desperation among Nigerian politicians who are already campaigning and bargaining for power ahead of the 2027 general election.
Speaking during a sermon at the burial service for the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland, the cleric described as “disgraceful” the actions of politicians who are prematurely plotting their next moves while the country faces serious socio-economic and security challenges.
He said: “It is very disturbing that while our government needs to focus on the myriad of problems confronting the nation, some politicians are already talking about 2027. This is a disgrace to governance, an abuse of the people’s mandate, and a reckless disregard for their concerns.”
The cleric urged politicians to focus on delivering results, not plotting political futures. “We plead with elected officials to honour the mandate they were given by prioritising the people’s welfare, and leave politics for the last year of their tenure,” he added.
He specifically criticised politicians bargaining to serve only one term in office, calling it a “sign of desperation” that will not serve the people nor produce effective governance.
“Let me say that any politician bargaining for only one term is a sign of desperation. It will not work. It is also desperation when leaders are seen serving food at parties, hoping to win public sympathy. These gimmicks won’t work,” he said.
Aladekugbe emphasised that political leaders should prioritise service delivery over early electioneering, especially as the country continues to grapple with worsening poverty, rising tariffs, and high youth unemployment.
“The hardship in our country continues unabated. The time for mass employment programmes for our teeming youth population cannot be later than now,” he stressed.
The bishop condemned recent increases in telecommunications tariffs, calling them insensitive and further evidence of a disconnect between the government and the masses. He also lamented the deepening insecurity across the country, noting that lives were increasingly devalued due to unending killings by bandits, herdsmen, and other criminal groups.
“Whether in the North, Middle Belt or South, killings and the waste of innocent lives are common denominators, along with poverty. This should concern every sane Nigerian,” he said.
Aladekugbe appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intensify efforts in combating insecurity and safeguarding the lives of citizens.
“We appeal to our government under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu to rise to the occasion and stop the killings. The figures of lost lives are now too disturbing to read.”
He called for greater investment in intelligence gathering, security equipment, and surveillance technology to track and neutralise criminal elements across the country.
“The primary duty of the government is to protect its citizens. We plead with our government to act decisively. Meanwhile, the Church will continue to uphold all levels of government in prayer,” he assured.
