Prayer Is Waste of Time Under Bad Leadership in Nigeria - Apostle Suleman Says

Prominent Nigerian clergyman Apostle Johnson Suleman, senior pastor of Omega Fire Ministries International, has issued a strong critique of the nation’s leadership, saying prayer alone is futile when citizens elect “bad leaders.”

Speaking during a recent sermon that quickly circulated on social media, Suleman said, “It’s a waste praying when you have elected a bad person. The only prayer you should now pray is for the grace to survive the suffering.”

The cleric’s remarks come amid rising insecurity and violence across Nigeria, including attacks by armed groups, kidnappings, and clashes between communities.

He criticized political authorities for attempting to manage public perception through media messaging after violent incidents, calling such efforts the “height of insensitivity.”

“When people are mourning, tell your media to keep quiet. It is lack of empathy that people are grieving and you are responding with defense. That is insensitivity,” he said.

Suleman also highlighted a growing desensitization to death in the country, saying repeated exposure to killings has led to a disturbing normalization of tragedy.

“You wake up, they say 40 people have been killed somewhere, you say ‘eeyah’ and move on. Do you know what that does to your mind? It is killing empathy. Death is becoming normal,” he stated.

His comments echo broader critiques of government inaction and inefficiency, particularly regarding security and public welfare.

Supporters on social media praised his frankness as reflecting the frustrations of many Nigerians, while critics argued his statements risk undermining faith-based efforts to provide hope during crises.

Apostle Johnson Suleman, born in Benin City, Edo State, in 1971, founded Omega Fire Ministries International, a fast-growing Pentecostal church.

He is known for bold statements on social and political issues, frequently sparking both praise and controversy across the country.

His latest remarks have reignited discussion about leadership, governance, and the moral responsibilities of those in power in Nigeria.