Pastor Tunde Bakare reveals why he visited Tinubu despite past criticism

Founder of the Citadel Global Community Church, Pastor Tunde Bakare, has shed light on the reasons behind his recent private meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Lagos—a visit that has sparked public curiosity given Bakare’s recent outspoken criticism of the administration.

The meeting, which took place on Wednesday, came just 45 days after Pastor Bakare delivered a fiery sermon in April, where he openly warned President Tinubu against “playing God.” In that sermon, the revered cleric voiced deep concerns about the trajectory of governance under Tinubu, suggesting that the administration was drifting dangerously off course.

Responding to inquiries about the sudden visit, Pastor Bakare explained that his intention was not political, but rooted in his responsibility as a spiritual leader and concerned citizen.

Despite the earlier criticism, Bakare said the visit was driven by a shared interest in the future of Nigeria. Speaking after the meeting, he explained that the conversation with President Tinubu centered on how to ensure Nigeria works within their lifetime.

Despite expressing satisfaction that the President received him well, the preacher refused to reveal details of his discussion with the President.

“Well, my visit to President Tinubu is about how the country will go well. My life, personal vision is to see a nation that works in my life time, and those things I’ve discussed with Mr. President. They are not hidden things, but I’ve learnt that when you discuss with the person in charge, you leave it to him to do whatever he wills with whatever you’ve suggested.

“I’ve had a private conversation with Mr. President, and I’m glad that he received me well. I trust that God will help our Nation.

“What transpired in my discussion with him, stays with him and with me. God guiding him and giving him wisdom will help this nation not to go down the drain, but to bounce back so that he can live a mark that cannot be erased,” he said.

He expressed his wishes for Nigeria, saying it’s time for the country to take steps to achieve progress.

“I’d like to see a peaceful Nation, I’d like to see Nigerians be their brother’s keeper. I’d like to see good collaboration between the best of North and the best of the South to steer Nigeria in the best direction.

“I’d like to see predictable progress in our nation. We’ve danced around some subjects for too long a time, it is time to take concrete action,” Bakare stated.