By Ayomide Otitoju
The Serving Overseer of the Citadel Global Community Church, Pastor Tunde Bakare, has clarified that his recent remarks referencing the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and a plane crash were metaphorical and not intended to mock the victims of the 2006 ADC Airline disaster.
In a statement on Sunday, Bakare said his comments were taken out of context, emphasizing that he used the analogy to describe political instability within certain parties, not to ridicule a national tragedy.
The cleric, who had earlier revealed that he was under pressure to join the ADC, maintained that his decision not to align with the party was purely political. “I am not going to take part in ADC. The last time I knew about ADC was about a plane that crashed. I wish them well because we need a robust opposition,” Bakare said.
He, however, clarified that his comments were figurative, saying, “My remarks did not in any way refer to or make light of the victims of the October 29, 2006 ADC Airline crash. I pray that all those still burdened by the pain of that event find complete healing and comfort.”
The October 29, 2006 ADC Airline Flight 53 tragedy, which occurred shortly after takeoff in Abuja, claimed 98 lives, including that of the then Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Maccido, and other prominent Nigerians.
Reaffirming his respect for the victims and their families, Bakare urged the public to view his comments within the context of political commentary, not as a slight to the memory of those who lost their lives.
