Kwankwaso sues Primate Ayodele for defamation over viral church video remarks

Rabiu Kwankwaso, the Nigerian Democratic Congress vice-presidential candidate and former Kano State governor, has filed a defamation suit against Primate Elijah Ayodele of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church. The suit follows a viral video from a live-streamed church service in which Ayodele called Kwankwaso 'a fake' to Peter Obi, claimed he would betray Obi, alleged he had been paid to serve as Obi's running mate, and made other libelous remarks. Kwankwaso's legal team, led by Magaji Mato Ibrahim SAN, delivered a letter demanding an immediate retraction and a public apology.

The lawsuit highlights growing tension within the opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 elections. Ayodele had previously warned Obi that his running mate would jeopardise his presidential ambition, and the latest remarks suggest a deepening rift. For voters, the dispute raises questions about the loyalty of key opposition figures and the influence of religious leaders on political narratives, potentially shaping public perception of the NDC-Obi ticket.

Readers should watch for Ayodele's response—whether he retracts, apologises, or stands by his statements—and consider how any escalation might affect coalition stability. If the cleric refuses to comply, Kwankwaso's team could pursue damages, adding another layer to the pre-election landscape.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/06/24/kwankwaso-sues-primate-ayodele-over-alleged-defamation/