Photos: Leaked Chat Between Power Minister and Primate Ayodele Triggers New Controversy
A purported private chat between the Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, and Primate Elijah Ayodele has been circulating on social media, adding fuel to a growing public dispute between the two figures after the minister filed a petition alleging extortion and blackmail.
Adelabu earlier this week formally petitioned the Department of State Services (DSS), accusing the cleric of demanding N150 million in “spiritual intercession” to aid his (Adelabu’s) bid for the Oyo State governorship. The minister claimed Ayodele asked him to procure expensive items including 1,000 trumpets allegedly worth up to N150 million — demands he described as extortionate and improper. ([TheCable]
Shortly after the petition became public, screenshots of what appear to be text exchanges between the two men began circulating online. In the alleged messages, Ayodele reassures the minister that his intentions were spiritual guidance, not financial gain, and urges Adelabu to focus on prayer and divine favor. One message reads: “Seek God’s mercy and let your heart be steadfast — not wealth.” Another purported reply from the minister indicates frustration over the cost and relevance of the requested items.
#Contrasting Accounts
Primate Ayodele has since publicly denied any attempt to extort the minister, saying he never asked Adelabu for money and that the discussion about the musical instruments was meant only for spiritual benefit. According to his statement, the minister’s representatives repeatedly contacted him because Adelabu was “desperate” to secure the governorship ticket, prompting Ayodele to advise a symbolic act of seeking divine favor — not to enrich himself. ([Independent Newspaper Nigeria][2])
In his petition, Adelabu said Ayodele’s statements and behaviours constituted blackmail and malicious conduct designed to tarnish his reputation after he refused to comply with the demands. He also accused the cleric of issuing prophecies about his political future that he claims were retaliatory and harmful. ([Sahara Reporters]
#Public Reaction and Official Responses
The alleged leaked chat has intensified public interest in the feud. On X and WhatsApp groups, users have debated whose account is credible, with some calling for transparency and a thorough investigation, while others dismiss the purported messages as doctored or taken out of context.
The Ministry of Power has described the leak as “irresponsible and distracting,” insisting that internal correspondence should not overshadow the ongoing petition procedures. Meanwhile, Ayodele’s media team has accused critics of misrepresenting his spiritual counsel for political ends.
Security agencies have not yet confirmed the authenticity of the leaked chat. The DSS, which is reviewing the minister’s petition, has declined comment on unverified messages circulating online.
As the dispute continues to unfold, analysts say the episode highlights the growing role of digital leaks in shaping public narratives and political tensions in Nigeria’s charged environment.