A Nigerian social activist, Comrade Phils, has called on Igbo organisations and influential leaders to initiate legal action against Primate Elijah Ayodele following a viral video in which the cleric declared that Igbos are “cursed” and incapable of producing a Nigerian president. In a strongly worded commentary titled “Why Igbos Must Sue Prophet Ayodele in Droves,”
Comrade Phils accused the prophet of promoting ethnic hatred from the pulpit and described his remarks as a clear violation of Nigeria’s laws against incitement and discriminatory speech. “Deep-Seated Hatred”:
The activist said he had taken time to reflect on Ayodele’s comments and concluded that such pronouncements could only stem from “deep-seated hatred” for the Igbo ethnic group. “Do You Know The Level Of Deep-Seated Hatred You Would Possess To Recklessly Look At
A Multicultural Church, You Pastor And Utter Such Demeaning Words Against A Particular Tribe?” He Asked. He argued that Ayodele’s statements were not mere prophecies but offensive, inciting, and discriminatory declarations that meet the legal definition of hate speech under Nigerian law.
Comrade Phils urged Ohanaeze Ndigbo, prominent Igbo organisations, and influential Igbo sons and daughters to take decisive action by dragging the cleric to court. “If Ohaneze Ndigbo Is Truly Active, A Court Case Should Be Instituted Against This Man. Hate Speech Is A Crime In Nigeria.
There Are Existing Laws That Criminalise Abusive And Inciting Speech, Particularly Those Related To Ethnic, Religious, Or Political Matters,” He Wrote.
He insisted that leaving the matter to fade as an online argument would be inadequate and would embolden others who use religious platforms to spread harmful narratives. “Make An Example Of Him” — Activist Says Lawsuits Should Serve As Deterrence The activist described Ayodele as a “false prophet” hiding under the cloak of religion to propagate division. He called on influential Nigerians of Igbo descent to file multiple suits to ensure the law takes its full course. “Well-Meaning And Influential Igbo Sons And Daughters Ought To Institute Multiple Lawsuits Against This False Prophet Who Abuses Certain Privileges To Propagate Hate Among Nigerians,” He Said.
He argued that the legal action would serve as a deterrent to others who misuse religious authority to incite hostility among ethnic groups. Growing Outrage Over Video Ayodele’s viral remarks have sparked outrage across social media, with many Nigerians — including politicians, activists, and faith leaders — condemning the statements as dangerous and divisive. Critics say such rhetoric undermines national unity and could inflame ethnic tensions at a time when the country is grappling with security and economic challenges. The activist ended his commentary with a clear message summarised in the trending hashtag: #CancelPrimateAyodele.
By REPORT AFRIQUE (RA)
