Former Minister of Education, Obiageli Ezekwesili, has come to the defence of Pastor Enoch Adeboye amid growing public criticism, insisting that the respected cleric should not be blamed for Nigeria’s challenges or become a target of public anger.
In a statement shared on X on Thursday, Ezekwesili acknowledged the widespread frustration among Nigerians over insecurity, economic hardship, and governance failures, but said the anger is being directed at the wrong individuals.
She noted that years of corruption, insecurity, and unfulfilled political promises have deepened distrust in leaders, institutions, and influential figures expected to hold government accountable.
According to her, many citizens now expect religious leaders to take a stronger stand on national issues, but she maintained that Adeboye has consistently spoken and prayed for the country.
Ezekwesili described the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God as a humble servant of God who has dedicated his life to promoting peace and national development, while cautioning against misdirected criticism.
She also warned against what she called a national tendency to focus on less important issues while deeper structural problems remain unresolved.
“Rooted in scriptural and spiritual wisdom, Pastor E.A. Adeboye- like a true bearer of the Cross of Christ – has often chosen dignified silence whenever attacked. Through the years, I learned from him to do the same.
“But this moment demands a historical clarity that we must not miss. I must therefore write publicly to help bring us back to what truly matters and to the urgency of this moment.
“In doing so, it is crucial to first acknowledge the broader context in which criticisms of public figures have erupted in our beleaguered country.
“Nigerians are exhausted. Decades of systemic corruption, insecurity, economic hardship, and unfulfilled promises have produced a deep well of frustration.
“That frustration has evolved into trenchant distrust – not only of politicians, but of institutions and influential individuals whom the people believe possess the moral authority to demand accountability from those in power.
“Across Nigeria today, the cry is simple:
“Our religious leaders must rise and help rescue Nigeria from the grip of ineffectual, corrupt, and selfish politicians.
“This is the crux of the matter. Nothing else,” she stated.
