Social media activist VeryDarkMan (VDM) has accused Nigerian politicians of deploying religion as a tool to shape public opinion, after questioning Pastor Ezekiel Dachomo’s apparent shift from sharp critic of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to an advocate of prayers for the President.
In a video shared online, VDM recalled that Pastor Dachomo had previously criticised both Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, alleging they harboured plans to “Islamise Nigeria.” The cleric had also spoken out forcefully against insecurity in Plateau State, blamed the federal government for failing to protect citizens, and even called for United States intervention.
“How did Reverend/Pastor Ezekiel Dachomo move from criticising Tinubu to campaigning for Tinubu? How he moved from Vice President Shettima and Tinubu wanting to Islamise Nigeria to praying for Tinubu’s administration? What changed?” VDM asked.
While acknowledging that praying for political leaders is not inherently wrong, the activist said the sudden change in tone raised red flags. “It is not a bad thing to pray for your leaders, but there’s something off,” he stated.
VDM further alleged that the government may have reached out to the pastor, insisting that politicians routinely use religious institutions and leaders to influence Nigerians. “Religion is a tool in the hands of the politician,” he declared, arguing that faith-based messaging can lull citizens into believing help is on the way rather than holding those in power accountable.
The comments have reignited debate over the intersection of religion and politics in Nigeria, particularly amid ongoing security challenges.