Primate Elijah Ayodele has denied allegations by Bayo Adelabu, minister of power, who petitioned the DSS accusing the cleric of attempting to extort N150 million for “spiritual intercession” to secure the Oyo governorship. In a statement by his media aide, Ayodele said he never demanded money from Adelabu, explaining that the only request discussed was for trumpets after the minister sought spiritual guidance. “I didn’t ask Bayo Adelabu to bring money for prayers,” he said.
Ayodele said Adelabu initiated the contact, adding that the minister “was willing to give anything” to become Oyo governor but declined buying the musical instruments meant as a spiritual offering. He maintained that his long-standing prophecies about Adelabu’s political chances were unrelated to the disagreement, saying, “I don’t make prophecies to make money.” The cleric reiterated that he warned Adelabu that securing the 2027 ticket would require divine mercy, not financial inducement.