The Archbishop of Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province and Bishop of Ibadan North (Anglican) Diocese, Right Reverend Williams Aladekugbe, has described the act of politicians serving food at public events as a clear display of desperation, warning that such tactics will not work on Nigerians.
According to a report by The Nation Nigeria on Friday, August 8, 2025, the Archbishop stated this while delivering his sermon at the final farewell service of the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
He said, “Any politician bargaining for only one term is a sign of desperation. It will not work. It is also a sign of desperation when you see leaders in their own rights carrying plates, serving food at parties. All these will not work.”
The Archbishop’s remarks come weeks after a video of former presidential candidate Peter Obi went viral on social media, showing him serving food during the Jubilee of Hope event held in Imo State over the weekend.
The video sparked widespread reactions, with critics accusing Obi of engaging in subtle political campaigning ahead of the 2027 elections.
In response, Obi clarified that the event was a charity outreach, not a political gathering.
He explained that his act of serving food to the less privileged was in line with his personal values and longstanding commitment to service, not a calculated political move.
Despite such clarifications, Archbishop Aladekugbe expressed concern over the growing trend of political figures focusing on public image rather than governance.
He noted that such actions, especially in the face of worsening economic conditions and insecurity, reflect a troubling disconnect from the realities Nigerians are facing.
He also criticized the growing political activities surrounding the 2027 general election, warning that early politicking is a distraction from pressing national issues.
The Archbishop called on elected officials to focus on delivering good governance and delay political campaigns until the final year of their term.
He also appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intensify efforts in tackling insecurity, saying the rising death toll across the country must not be ignored.
