Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, has sparked controversy with his recent comments on Nigeria’s insecurity. Speaking at the US-Nigeria Faith Heroes Award Gala in Washington on June 23, the cleric defended President Bola Tinubu.
Adeboye stated that the President had fulfilled his role by issuing directives to security agencies. “I don’t support those who are accusing the president of not doing enough,” he said. “When the commander-in-chief has given instructions to his subordinates, he has done his bit. You don’t expect him to go and put on khaki and fight.”
He compared Tinubu’s position to that of world leaders like US President Donald Trump, who authorise operations without joining the battlefield. Adeboye acknowledged the crisis has worsened significantly. Terrorism and kidnapping, once northern issues, have reached his doorstep in the south.
The cleric urged action against sponsors. “Some of them are businessmen. Some of them are politicians. Go after them,” he said. He had advised Tinubu privately to issue a 90-day ultimatum to military commanders: wipe out the threats or resign.
Social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), responded sharply. He accused Adeboye of turning a blind eye due to Tinubu’s presidency. VDM questioned the pastor’s selective criticism, noting Adeboye’s past protests under former President Goodluck Jonathan.
In his video, VDM highlighted perceived inconsistency. He argued influential clerics like Adeboye should pressure leaders regardless of personal ties. The comments drew mixed reactions online, with some supporting VDM’s call for accountability and others defending the pastor’s advisory role.
Nigeria continues to grapple with banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism. Recent incidents in Plateau and Oyo states have intensified public frustration. VDM has previously visited attack scenes and criticised officials, including the Minister of Defence.
Adeboye’s remarks reflect his long-standing engagement with national issues. He has counselled multiple presidents privately while publicly addressing challenges. The exchange with VDM underscores tensions between religious leaders and critics over governance and insecurity.
Public discourse remains divided. Many Nigerians demand faster results on security. Others emphasise the limits of any single leader’s direct involvement. The debate highlights broader questions about accountability, influence, and expectations from both government and faith leaders.
As insecurity persists, calls for decisive action grow louder. Adeboye’s 90-day proposal and focus on sponsors add to ongoing conversations. VDM’s critique keeps pressure on public figures to address citizens’ concerns directly.
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