Pastor Tunde Bakare has rejected claims that his recent visit to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was for personal or political benefit. The senior pastor of Citadel Global Community Church said the visit was strictly about national interest and had nothing to do with lobbying for positions or favours.
Bakare, who took part in the 2023 APC presidential primaries, visited Tinubu at the State House last week, leading to rumours of a possible political deal. Addressing the speculation during a church sermon, he dismissed the claims as baseless. “Some people still think I went there to settle myself. Settle myself how? What did I collect before that I didn’t return? What am I looking for?” he asked.
After the meeting, Bakare told reporters that his discussion with the president focused on ideas to improve the country. He explained that his motivation was his vision of a better Nigeria, not personal ambition. “It’s not about reservations,” he said. “It’s about how the country can work well. I want to see that happen in my lifetime.”
He also confirmed that he made suggestions to the president but left the final decision entirely to him.
