Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has urged President Bola Tinubu to take urgent and strategic measures to end the growing insecurity and concerns over alleged Christian persecution in Nigeria.
Speaking during the November Holy Ghost Service at the Redemption City Campground, Adeboye called on the president to act with wisdom and diplomacy, stressing that Nigeria’s unity must be preserved above religious and political divisions. He said there was once a time when Christians and Muslims lived peacefully together, adding that the religious divide began when politics became mixed with faith.
The cleric explained that he had advised past presidents privately on issues relating to security and religion but noted that his role had limitations since only the Commander-in-Chief holds the authority to enforce such decisions. He stated that he had done his part and that God is his witness.
Adeboye suggested that if given another chance to advise the current administration, he would recommend a swift and diplomatic response. He urged the government to appeal to the United States to delay any planned actions for about 100 days, while directing the Nigerian service chiefs to eliminate terrorists within 90 days or resign from their positions.
He recalled that former President Muhammadu Buhari once issued a similar order to the service chiefs to defeat Boko Haram or step down but failed to ensure its implementation. Adeboye said he personally questioned Buhari on why he did not act on his own directive, and the response he received influenced his present advice.
Adeboye further stated that any new order from President Tinubu should also target those who sponsor or support terrorist activities, regardless of their social or political status. He advised that the war against terrorism should be comprehensive and uncompromising.
The pastor cautioned the government to tread carefully in its diplomatic relations with world powers, noting that no foreign country would come to Nigeria’s defense if conflict broke out. He warned that while other nations might condemn America’s actions if tensions escalate, none would actually intervene on Nigeria’s behalf.
He added that the time for debate and excuses has passed and that what the country needs now is decisive action to stop the killing of innocent people, whether Christian or Muslim.
Adeboye said he was nearly moved to speak publicly after hearing a recent statement by President Tinubu, whom he described as his in-law, which portrayed the security situation in the country as improving. He disagreed with that assessment, noting that just a day after the president’s remarks, reports emerged of a traditional ruler being killed in Kwara or Kogi State.
According to him, while President Tinubu inherited many of the nation’s challenges, Nigerians now expect practical solutions. Adeboye said that as an applied mathematician, he is only interested in solving problems, not in discussing them endlessly.
He restated his call for the government to seek diplomatic understanding with the United States and to request a short grace period before any foreign intervention, while holding the service chiefs accountable for delivering concrete results within 90 days.
Adeboye concluded with a message of hope, saying that despite the difficulties facing the country, God’s promise of peace will prevail. He reminded his congregation that this year will be remarkable and that although the storms may be fierce, peace will eventually return to Nigeria.
