According to reports, Elijah Ayodele, the leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has expressed strong views regarding the political outlook in Ekiti State ahead of the 2027 governorship election. Speaking during a church programme, the cleric addressed Oluwole Oluyede, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, stating that he does not foresee him emerging victorious in the contest.
Ayodele firmly dismissed the idea that external political influence could determine the outcome in Oluyede’s favor. In his words, “Oluyede, you cannot win the 2027 election; Wike cannot win it for you.” The statement directly referenced Nyesom Wike, suggesting that even the backing of a prominent political figure would not guarantee success at the polls.
The cleric emphasized that electoral victory cannot be secured solely through alliances or endorsements from influential individuals outside the state. According to him, political success in Ekiti depends largely on grassroots support and acceptance among local voters. He noted that without a solid internal political base, candidates may struggle to convert high-profile backing into actual electoral gains.
Ayodele further argued that politicians often overestimate the strength of alliances that are not deeply rooted in the local political structure. He stressed that each state operates within its own unique political environment, requiring strategies tailored to its specific realities. In his view, external influence alone is insufficient to navigate these complexities or secure voter trust.
Additionally, he maintained that his remarks reflect his belief about how events will unfold, underscoring that the 2027 governorship election in Ekiti State will ultimately be shaped by factors beyond external support. He highlighted the importance of preparation, strategic planning, and public acceptance, noting that these elements frequently outweigh endorsements from powerful political figures.
Overall, Ayodele’s comments point to the significance of grassroots engagement and local political dynamics in determining electoral outcomes, reinforcing the idea that influence from outside the state may have limited impact without strong internal backing.