LAGOS — Renowned cleric and leadership expert, Pastor Sam Adeyemi, has expressed deep concern over the growing disconnect between Nigeria’s political leaders and the suffering masses, lamenting the erosion of empathy and compassion in the country’s governance.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Thursday, the Senior Pastor of Daystar Christian Centre criticized what he described as a self-serving political class more concerned with clinging to power than solving the pressing issues facing everyday Nigerians.

“Many of our leaders are driven by the fear of losing power, which is why you see them constantly switching parties,” Adeyemi said. “They have clearly lost touch with the plight of the poor. There is a dangerous lack of empathy and compassion.”

The pastor called for a leadership environment that fosters sound decision-making, accountability, and an unwavering focus on national development.

He also decried the influence of political “godfathers,” arguing that power is often determined by a select few rather than by the people.

“Our system enables political kingmakers to determine who gets into office. This breeds corruption and disconnects leaders from those they are supposed to serve,” he said.

Adeyemi cited former President Olusegun Obasanjo as a leader who resisted ethnic and divisive politics, commending him for promoting national unity over regional favoritism.

Highlighting the dangers of ethno-political narratives, Adeyemi shared an anecdote about a foreign diplomat who expressed concern over divisive rhetoric allegedly circulating within the Presidential Villa, particularly narratives that blame the North for the country’s challenges.

“This kind of blame game only deepens national divisions and threatens our unity,” Adeyemi warned.

In his concluding remarks, the pastor called on Nigerian leaders to reconnect with the people, urging them to pursue genuine nation-building rather than prioritizing personal and political survival.

“Our leaders must remember why they were elected in the first place — to serve, not to rule. It’s time for compassion, vision, and unity to take center stage,” he said.

Adeyemi’s remarks add to a growing chorus of voices calling for reform, integrity, and a more people-centered leadership model in Africa’s most populous nation.