IPNEWS: The Nigerian government stated that the pastor is a private citizen who does not speak for the state.
The issue began when Primate Elijah Ayodele, the head of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church in Lagos, Nigeria, made several public statements about Liberian President Joseph Boakai. In videos shared online, the pastor claimed that President Boakai was: “Confused,” “old,” “tired”, Unable to properly handle the demands of running the country.
The pastor also called for the President’s resignation and predicted a possible military coup in Liberia if he stays in power.
The Complaint from Liberia
On June 8, 2026, the Liberian Embassy in Abuja sent a formal diplomatic note to Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Liberian government argued that the pastor’s words were dangerous. They stated that the “prophecy” could cause false public opinions, hurt the relationship between the two countries, and threaten peace and democracy in Liberia. The embassy asked Nigerian authorities to step in and review the matter.
Nigeria’s Direct Response
Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, led by Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, quickly turned down the complaint. In its official response, the Nigerian government made a few key points:
“Private Citizens Speak for Themselves: Nigeria explained that the pastor is a private individual. His personal thoughts do not match or represent the views of the Nigerian state. ” The Nigerian Foreign Ministry statement read.
Nigeria stated it is a democracy that protects free speech and freedom of religion.
“The government does not censor what private citizens say about public officials or foreign leaders.
The Nigerian government expressed surprise that comments from a private church leader were turned into an official diplomatic dispute.” The Nigerian Foreign Ministry statement emphasized.
Nigeria finished by reaffirming its long, friendly relationship with Liberia. It urged both nations to keep their diplomatic talks focused strictly on actual government-to-government matters. [
