Pastor Bolaji Idowu has used a church service to draw attention to the economic hardship confronting Nigerians while speaking to Lagos State Deputy Governor and 2027 governorship candidate, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, during his visit to the church.
Addressing Hamzat, Idowu said the outcome of the forthcoming governorship election was not the immediate concern of Nigerians, stressing that what people primarily wanted was relief from the difficult economic conditions affecting their lives.
“Nigerians are going through difficult times. Things are really tough at the moment. Even if you win the governorship election or someone else wins, all we want is for the hardship to be reduced,” Idowu said.
Hamzat is the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the 2027 Lagos State governorship election, having emerged as the party’s candidate in May 2026.
Idowu’s remarks come amid broader concerns from religious leaders and other Nigerians over the rising cost of living and economic pressure. Earlier in September, the Spiritual Advisory Council of Christ Church, Port Harcourt, comprising Anglican, Methodist and Presbyterian leaders, described the economic situation as severe and increasingly unbearable for many citizens.
The pastor’s message appeared to place the welfare of residents above political affiliation, suggesting that whoever eventually emerges as Lagos governor should prioritise reducing the burden faced by ordinary people.
Hamzat, who currently serves as Lagos deputy governor, is campaigning to succeed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in 2027. His campaign has listed affordable housing, transport, jobs, healthcare, security and climate resilience among its priorities.
The exchange has attracted attention online as Nigerians continue to debate the role of political leaders in addressing the cost-of-living crisis and improving living conditions.
With the 2027 election approaching, Idowu’s message was a reminder that beyond political victories, many Nigerians are looking for tangible improvements in their daily lives.
