Pastor Tunde Bakare, the Serving Overseer of Citadel Global Community Church, has clarified remarks he made about the African Democratic Congress (ADC), insisting he did not intend to trivialize the victims of the October 29, 2006 plane crash that claimed the life of the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Maccido, among 98 others.

Speaking at a press briefing on Sunday, Bakare said his earlier comments were misinterpreted and were purely metaphorical, meant to describe instability in certain political parties rather than the tragic air disaster.

“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,” he stated, adding, “My comments did not in any way highlight the victims of the 2006 ADC Airline crash. I pray that all those affected by that event find complete healing and comfort.”

Bakare, who has faced pressure to join the coalition-backed party, reiterated his decision to stay independent, while wishing the party success in strengthening opposition politics in the country.

The ADC Airline Flight 53 crash in 2006 remains one of Nigeria’s deadliest aviation disasters, claiming 98 lives, including that of the then Sultan of Sokoto.