Super Eagles: Shame to Ayodele’s critics — Nigeria caused its own failure

By Eke Johnson

The Bible admonishes us clearly: “Touch not my anointed, and do my prophets no harm.” This timeless warning seems to have been ignored in recent times, particularly in the aftermath of Nigeria’s disappointing outing at the ongoing tournament in Morocco.

Ahead of the competition, Primate Elijah Ayodele, the Founder and Leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, made a number of revelations concerning the Super Eagles.

These messages were not meant to condemn Nigeria but to serve as spiritual guidance and caution—signals that, if taken seriously, could have helped the team prepare better both mentally and physically.

Unfortunately, instead of sober reflection, many Nigerians chose ridicule, mockery, and outright hostility. Critics twisted his words, distorted his message, and turned spiritual counsel into an object of scorn.

This culture of negativity, rather than unity and preparedness, continues to undermine our collective success as a nation.

Football is not played by talent alone. Beyond tactics and star players, factors such as preparation, mentality, discipline, and yes—luck—often determine the outcome of major tournaments. History has repeatedly shown that nations that ignore warning signs, whether strategic or spiritual, often pay the price.

Let us ask ourselves honest questions about the Super Eagles’ performance. Did Ademola Lookman make the expected impact? Did Victor Osimhen demonstrate the stamina and sharpness required at that level? Did goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali truly command his area and inspire confidence at critical moments?

These questions are not asked to apportion blame but to highlight that Nigeria’s failure cannot be blamed on prophecy—it was largely self-inflicted.

What eventually unfolded on the pitch aligned closely with what Primate Ayodele had earlier cautioned against. This is why it is important to draw a clear distinction between prophecy and prediction. Primate Ayodele is not a sports analyst or a forecaster; he is a spiritual leader who speaks from a prophetic standpoint. Prophecy warns, guides, and prepares—it does not force outcomes.

Over the years, countless events across politics, security, sports, and national affairs have lent credence to his prophetic consistency. In today’s Nigeria, there are thousands of documented instances where his warnings later manifested.

Whether one believes or not, such a record deserves at least respect.
The real shame, therefore, lies not in listening to prophecy but in our refusal to learn from experience. When a nation constantly mocks caution, disregards preparation, and embraces negativity, failure becomes inevitable.

It is time to stop attacking voices of warning and start confronting our own shortcomings. Leave Primate Elijah Ayodele alone.

History has shown that a true prophet does not need validation from critics—time always does that.

When you see a true prophet, discernment—not ridicule—should be your response.