Primate Elijah Ayodele, Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has raised fresh alarm over security in Lagos. He claims terrorists are already monitoring the state and could exploit vulnerable groups for attacks.
Speaking during a church gathering on Sunday, June 7, 2026, the cleric urged the Lagos State Government to act swiftly. He called for a total ban on Okada riders across all areas of the state.
“Security alert for Lagos State government, ban Okada in every area of the state,” Ayodele stated. “If you don’t ban Okada riders, they will injure Lagos State.”
The prophet extended his warning to other groups. He demanded the immediate prohibition of wheelbarrow pushers and beggars. According to him, failure to act could lead to devastating consequences for Lagos and Nigeria.
“All these wheelbarrow pushers ban them, ban beggars so that they will not attack Lagos,” he said. “If they attack Lagos, Nigeria will be thrown into disarray.”
Ayodele described some of the individuals in these categories as potential threats. He referred to Almajiris, beggars, and cart pushers as “suicidal” elements that could shake the state if not stopped.
He further suggested the establishment of a dedicated task force. This body, he proposed, should enforce the bans strictly. For Okada riders, he recommended harsh penalties, including 30 years imprisonment for violators, except for official parcel delivery services.
The statement comes amid ongoing debates about commercial motorcycle operations in Lagos. Previous partial bans in areas like Ikeja and Surulere have sparked protests and enforcement challenges. Many riders rely on the business for daily survival, raising questions about alternative livelihoods.
Critics on social media have questioned the practicality of such sweeping measures. Some argue that banning these groups without support systems would worsen poverty and unemployment in the state. Others view the prophecy as an important wake-up call on infiltration risks.
Ayodele has a history of issuing bold prophecies on national security. In the past, he has accused high-profile politicians of links to terrorism, drawing both support and skepticism.
Lagos remains a major economic hub vulnerable to various threats. Recent false alarms about bandits in areas like Ikorodu and Lekki have already led to tragic incidents, including the death of an Okada rider.
As of now, the Lagos State Government has not issued an official response to Ayodele’s latest warning. Security agencies continue routine operations amid public anxiety.
The cleric emphasized that his message serves as a warning to prevent chaos. He noted terrorists are present but not yet fully operational in Lagos, potentially starting bigger moves in neighboring Ogun State.
This development adds to discussions on balancing security needs with the economic realities of millions of informal workers in Lagos. Whether authorities will heed the call remains to be seen.
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