Controversial cleric and founder of the Mountain of Holy Ghost Intervention and Deliverance Ministry, Chukwuemeka “Odumeje” Ohanaemere, has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, alleging that many public figures defending the government are doing so because they have been bribed.
The outspoken preacher made the remarks during a recent church sermon, where he urged Nigerians to take control of the country’s political future by electing leaders who genuinely prioritise the welfare of citizens.
According to Odumeje, the 2027 general election presents Nigerians with another opportunity to hold elected officials accountable for their performance.
“In 2027, we shall decide. Is it your governor, your senator or your family member that owns Nigeria, or all of us? We are no more boys; we are fathers. A person leading the people must know how to speak to the people,” he said.
The cleric also criticised President Tinubu over recent comments on hunger in Nigeria, saying he interpreted the President’s remarks as an acknowledgment that the country has struggled with hardship for decades.
“Have you seen someone that doesn’t have conscience? President Tinubu confessed that even before I was born, Nigeria had been living with hunger,” Odumeje stated.
He further accused politicians supporting the current administration of placing personal interests above the wellbeing of Nigerians.
According to him, many political office holders back the government because of the benefits they receive rather than genuine concern for national development.
“All the people supporting President Tinubu, thank God all of you are seeing how you are selling the future of our children because of money,” he said.
Odumeje also alleged that public figures who openly praise the Tinubu administration have been financially induced to do so.
“We know all of you, as governors, as senators. I know why you are talking. It is because of yourselves, your families and what you can gather and acquire after their leadership.”
“Anybody you see singing a song celebrating the latest government now is because that person is bribed,” he added.
The cleric recently criticised what he described as the growing closeness between some church leaders and political office holders, arguing that religious leaders should remain independent and speak truth to those in power.
In 2025, Odumeje also announced his intention to contest for Nigeria’s presidency, although he did not specify the election year he plans to participate in.
