The Presidency has acknowledged the recent state of the nation address by Pastor Tunde Bakare, describing the cleric’s remarks on President Bola Tinubu’s administration as notably objective and balanced.
Bakare, who is the overseer of The Citadel Global Community Church, delivered his address on Sunday in Lagos, where he offered a critical but measured assessment of the current state of governance in Nigeria. He urged President Tinubu to remain open to wise counsel and to avoid adopting a self-righteous or messianic approach in leading the country.
“The president must take decisive action through a structured agenda to navigate Nigeria out of its present challenges,” Bakare said, stressing the need for deliberate and transparent leadership.
In a no-holds-barred sermon, the fiery preacher lamented the conduct of those in power, accusing them of displaying arrogance and abusing authority rather than showing the humility required to address the nation’s challenges.
“Dear Nigerians, the past few months since that admonition have shown that those responsible for steering the course of our nation lack the humility and character this moment demands of leaders.
“Instead, what we have seen since the beginning of the year is a descent into tyranny and the brazen abuse of power,” Bakare declared.
His address came at a time of growing concern over Nigeria’s worsening security situation, particularly in Plateau and Benue States, where there has been a troubling surge in killings and abductions. Many citizens and civil society groups have voiced frustration over the government’s handling of the crisis, further fuelling debate over the state of leadership and national stability.
In response to Bakare’s observations, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, issued a statement acknowledging the balanced tone of the cleric’s comments. While he admitted that the Presidency disagreed with some of Bakare’s views, Bwala praised the overall constructiveness of the address.
“Importantly, he acknowledged the successes and strides of the President and his administration,” Bwala stated. “Although we differ with him in some areas and positions, we respect his right to say his mind, and assure him as with many Nigerians that President Tinubu is determined to deliver on the promise to the Nigerian people.”
The statement read in part, “Pastor Tunde Bakere @T_Bakare ‘s sermon and speech delivered this morning in form of a message to @officialABAT is quite objective.
“He gave his general opinion on events and decisions of government; He critiqued certain polities and applauded some ; he further offered his suggestions on the way forward.”
