The Leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Elijah Ayodele, has declared that the City Boys political movement being promoted in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not secure electoral victory in the next general election.
Speaking with journalists in Lagos on Tuesday, the cleric described the initiative as a political spectacle lacking the capacity to deliver meaningful electoral gains for the president and the ruling party.
Primate Ayodele said the movement appeared more focused on celebrations and campaign fanfare than addressing the real concerns of Nigerians ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
According to him, the growing political mobilisation around the City Boys structure is largely driven by money and influence, warning that such strategies may not translate into genuine voter support at the polls.
The outspoken cleric maintained that Nigerians are becoming increasingly aware of political realities and may not be swayed by extravagant campaign activities and elite political gatherings.
Ayodele further argued that vote buying has become deeply rooted in Nigeria’s electoral system, insisting that security agencies must confront politicians allegedly sponsoring the practice rather than targeting ordinary citizens.
He specifically called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to intensify investigations into political actors accused of deploying illicit funds during elections.
The cleric noted that attempts to curb vote buying would remain ineffective unless political leaders and their allies are held accountable for financing electoral inducement across the country.
Primate Ayodele warned that political campaigns centred on wealth, influence and public shows of power could face stiff resistance from Nigerians seeking improved governance and economic stability.
He added that the coming political season would test the popularity of many political groups, stressing that only sincere engagement with citizens would determine electoral success in the country.