Monrovia, Liberia — The Government of Liberia, through its Embassy in Abuja, has formally expressed concern to the Government of Nigeria over public statements made by Nigerian cleric, Elijah Babatunde Ayodele, regarding Liberian President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. and the country’s political stability.
According to a diplomatic communication from the Embassy of Liberia in Abuja to Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Liberian authorities are troubled by comments made by the founder of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church during public broadcasts on May 31 and June 7, 2026.
The Embassy noted that Ayodele described President Boakai as “confused,” “old,” and “tired,” publicly called for his resignation, and predicted that Liberia could experience a coup d’état if the President remained in office.
Liberia’s diplomatic mission said the remarks have sparked concerns among Liberians both at home and abroad, generating anti-Nigerian sentiments and creating what it described as the potential to undermine Liberia’s peace, stability, and democratic governance.
In its communication, the Embassy also recalled that Ayodele had previously inserted himself into Liberian political affairs, including publicly supporting a presidential candidate during the country’s 2023 elections. The Embassy noted that the cleric has continued to make pronouncements concerning Liberia’s internal political processes.
While acknowledging Nigeria’s constitutional protections for freedom of expression and freedom of religion, Liberia emphasized that public comments regarding friendly foreign nations and their democratically elected leaders should be made responsibly and in ways that foster mutual respect and cordial international relations.
The Embassy further warned that Ayodele’s repeated derogatory statements could strain the longstanding and friendly relationship between the peoples of Liberia and Nigeria.
As a result, Liberia requested that Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs take note of the concerns raised by the Liberian Government and bring the matter to the attention of relevant Nigerian authorities for consideration and possible redress.
The diplomatic note concluded by reaffirming Liberia’s commitment to maintaining strong bilateral relations with Nigeria and conveyed assurances of the Embassy’s highest consideration to the Nigerian government.
