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Debunking the Myth: A Closer Look at Pastor Tunde Bakare and Dr. Oby Ezekwesili’s Political Posturing

By Prof. Mgbeke

Nigeria, a country blessed with a rich diversity of cultures, histories, and ideologies, has long grappled with the struggle between moral leadership and political opportunism. Over the years, figures such as Pastor Tunde Bakare and Dr. Oby Ezekwesili have emerged as prominent voices, each positioning themselves as moral compasses and advocates for change. However, it is time to examine their actions, not just their words, and confront the unsettling reality that what they project publicly is often a far cry from the true essence of leadership.

While I hold deep respect for elders and those who genuinely serve in the vineyard of God, it is imperative that we stop confusing spiritual leadership with political opportunism. Pastor Tunde Bakare, in particular, has long positioned himself as a moral guide for the nation. Yet, his actions consistently tell a different story. Let us explore how his rhetoric and conduct serve as a reflection of the troubling intersection of ego, clout-chasing, and religious theatrics, and how his influence on the national stage has, more often than not, been divisive rather than transformative.

Pastor Tunde Bakare is no stranger to controversy. His ambitious political aspirations, coupled with his role as a spiritual leader, have created a blend of idealism and egocentricity that is difficult to ignore. He has been vocal about his desire to lead the nation, most notably when he once boldly declared that former President Muhammadu Buhari would hand over power to him—an audacious statement that raised more eyebrows than it did any sense of credibility. To suggest that a sitting president would directly pass the baton to Bakare as if receiving divine instructions is nothing short of grandiose. This type of rhetoric may have earned him attention, but it certainly undermines the very concept of true prophetic voice.

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It is no secret that Bakare has oscillated between the pulpit and politics over the years. While many may argue that it is his right to aspire to political office, the manner in which he has conducted himself—without any clear vision or tangible impact—has made his words ring hollow. When a spiritual leader of his stature engages in political drama without substance, it is not only an unfortunate display of ego, but it also exposes a deeper problem. His rhetoric has too often been a spectacle, a loud noise demanding attention, but offering little in terms of actual solutions or transformative actions.

Nigeria desperately needs leaders who are not only vocal but credible. Leaders whose words align with their actions, whose political pursuits are driven by purpose rather than ego. Pastor Bakare’s trajectory has, unfortunately, cast doubt on his true motivations. His desire to lead the nation seems more driven by self-interest than by a genuine commitment to public service. Walaih, barking is not talking; it is simply noisemaking and attention-seeking. We have passed the point of indulging such theatrics.

Just as Pastor Tunde Bakare has carved a niche for himself in the political theatre, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili has also positioned herself as a voice of reason and an advocate for the people. However, her record in the political arena has been anything but consistent or impressive. Ezekwesili, who once held high-ranking positions within the Nigerian government and on the global stage, now finds herself aligning with public narratives that seem to lack both clarity and conviction. While her earlier career may have been marked by a genuine desire to advocate for social justice, her more recent political engagements leave much to be desired.

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Ezekwesili’s actions often appear more focused on the spectacle than on substantive political change. Her alignment with characters who have been embroiled in controversy, such as Mrs. Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan, further complicates her credibility. This is the same Mrs. Akpoti who falsely accused Reno Omokri of sexual harassment—a grave accusation that nearly ruined a man’s career and personal life. Thankfully, the truth eventually emerged, and Mr. Omokri’s reputation was cleared, but the damage was done. It was a reminder that unsubstantiated accusations, especially those made by influential figures, can have far-reaching and irreversible consequences.

Now, as Akpoti once again finds herself at the center of another controversy, one cannot help but question Dr. Ezekwesili’s judgment in continuing to associate with such a figure. This pattern of aligning with individuals who display little regard for truth or accountability raises serious concerns about Ezekwesili’s own moral compass. If she chooses to remain linked with people who have a troubling track record of dishonesty and manipulation, she risks tarnishing her own legacy.

The actions of Pastor Tunde Bakare and Dr. Oby Ezekwesili reveal a dangerous trend in Nigerian politics—one where moral authority is often manipulated for personal gain. While both figures may claim to advocate for truth, justice, and national progress, their actions tell a different story. When spiritual leaders and former public servants engage in political gamesmanship, they betray the very principles they claim to stand for.

This pattern of political opportunism is not limited to Bakare and Ezekwesili. It extends to a broader culture of individuals who use their public positions—whether in religion, activism, or government—to create platforms for self-promotion rather than genuine service. When the fight for justice becomes a mere performance for the cameras, it no longer serves the people. Instead, it becomes a mechanism for furthering personal ambitions, regardless of the harm it may cause.

One of the most glaring examples of this manipulation is Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan, a woman whose political theatrics and moral compromises have repeatedly landed her in controversy. Akpoti’s recent actions are hardly a surprise, as her history of creating drama—both political and personal—has been well-documented. In the case of Reno Omokri, Akpoti’s false accusation of sexual harassment was a prime example of how unverified claims can be weaponized to destroy reputations and careers. Her failure to take responsibility for the damage she caused and her continued manipulation of public sentiment speaks volumes about her character.

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The truth about Natasha Akpoti is beginning to surface, and it is important that Nigerians, especially those in positions of influence like Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, recognize the dangers of supporting individuals whose actions are consistently rooted in falsehoods and manipulation. When truth becomes optional in the political discourse, the very fabric of society begins to unravel. The real victims in such situations are not the so-called political enemies, but the Nigerian people, who continue to suffer from the lack of genuine leadership and accountability.

It is essential to understand that not every loud voice represents real influence. Noise is not a sign of relevance. As Dr. Sandra C. Duru aptly puts it, “Some people shout the loudest when their impact is the smallest.” Real power does not need to scream; it speaks through evidence, actions, and the tangible results of true leadership. Nigeria’s problems cannot be solved by theatrics or by individuals who seek to capitalize on the nation’s pain for personal gain. The real leaders of our time are those who, despite their quiet demeanor, are making a difference through action, integrity, and consistency.

As the country continues to struggle with economic hardships, social inequality, and political instability, it is crucial that Nigerians begin to demand more from their leaders. The days of confusing noise for leadership must end. We need leaders who are not just talking, but doing. We need leaders who are not just promising change, but effecting it. Pastor Bakare and Dr. Ezekwesili, though well-meaning in their own ways, have failed to live up to the expectations of true leadership. Their continued political posturing serves only to further divide the nation, not unite it.

Nigeria is a country at a crossroads. The desire for change, for better governance, and for leaders who genuinely care about the welfare of the people is palpable. But the road to this change will not be paved by opportunistic figures who use politics and religion as tools for self-aggrandizement. It will be paved by those who put the nation’s interests above their own, who lead with integrity, and who are unafraid to make tough decisions in the face of adversity.

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In this context, figures like Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who have proven themselves through years of dedicated service and global recognition, serve as beacons of hope. Okonjo-Iweala’s leadership style—marked by wisdom, grace, and integrity—serves as the antidote to the noise and theatrics that have plagued Nigerian politics. She is a true leader, whose actions speak louder than any words ever could.

Similarly, figures like Pastor Jerry Eze, whose humility and commitment to serving God’s purpose, provide a stark contrast to the clout-chasing antics of those like Pastor Bakare. Nigeria needs more of such leaders—individuals who lead with purpose, who are motivated by service, and who understand that true leadership is not about headlines, but about tangible impact.

The time has come to separate the wheat from the chaff. Nigeria cannot afford to continue supporting individuals whose actions are driven by self-interest and political opportunism. We must demand more from our leaders. Pastor Tunde Bakare and Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, despite their previous contributions, have shown time and time again that their political posturing is more about self-promotion than national progress. It’s time to move beyond the noise and look for leaders who are ready to serve, not exploit.

May God bless Nigeria with true leaders, individuals who understand the weight of responsibility, and who are committed to bringing about lasting change, not for personal gain, but for the betterment of the people.