Satguru Maharaj Ji, Living Perfect Master and leader of One Love Family, has criticised prominent Christian clerics, including Bishop David Oyedepo and Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor, over their perceived involvement in Nigerian politics and comments concerning President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a strongly worded statement titled “Re: Bishop David Oyedepo and Oritsejafor Should Shut Up, Renounce or Become Mad Sowing the Spirit of Madness,” Maharaj Ji accused the clerics of using their religious influence to shape political opinions and urged them to refrain from what he described as divisive political interventions.
The statement was issued in reaction to an alleged comment attributed to Oyedepo concerning Nigerians who support the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the forthcoming presidential election.
Maharaj Ji argued that religious leaders should focus on spiritual guidance and humanitarian responsibilities rather than partisan politics.
He also launched a broader criticism of organised religion in Africa, particularly Christianity and Islam, alleging that religious institutions had historically been used as instruments of foreign influence and social control.
He described what he called “spiritual imperialism” as the exploitation of people’s religious beliefs for political and financial influence, while urging religious leaders to demonstrate greater concern for poor and vulnerable Nigerians.
The statement further defended President Tinubu’s administration, crediting the Federal Government with a number of initiatives and policy measures.
Among the administration’s achievements cited were efforts towards state police, tax reforms, infrastructure development, the National Student Loan programme, livestock development, electricity-sector reforms and the reconstruction of the Ajaokuta Steel Complex.
Maharaj Ji also claimed that the Tinubu administration had taken steps to address insecurity and corruption and argued that the President deserved recognition for measures aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s economy and political integration.
He particularly criticised what he described as attempts by some religious figures to portray the Tinubu administration negatively, arguing that clerics should acknowledge policies they consider beneficial to Nigerians.
The statement also referenced past national crises, including the struggle for the release of businessman and politician MKO Abiola, the COVID-19 pandemic and road accidents, while contrasting the roles played by religious leaders with those attributed to Maharaj Ji and his followers.
Maharaj Ji challenged Christian and Muslim clerics to demonstrate the practical value of their spiritual teachings by helping Nigerians establish what he described as a direct connection with the Creator.
He further called for a clearer separation between religion and government affairs, arguing that religious leaders should not wield undue influence over official government activities.
The statement urged Oyedepo and Oritsejafor to “tread carefully” and reconsider their approach to political discourse ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Maharaj Ji concluded by calling on President Tinubu to restrict what he described as the excessive involvement of religious leaders in official affairs, while expressing support for the President and his administration.
The claims and allegations contained in the statement represent the views of Maharaj Ji and were not independently established in the statement