Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has defended President Bola Tinubu against public criticism regarding Nigeria's worsening security situation. Speaking at the US-Nigeria Faith Heroes Award Gala hosted by the Save Nigeria Group in Washington, Adeboye argued that blame directed at the president is misplaced, asserting that the commander-in-chief fulfills his executive duty by issuing directives to the armed forces rather than participating directly in combat.
To illustrate his point, the cleric drew a parallel with military operations led by United States commanders-in-chief, noting that national leaders typically delegate tactical execution to their subordinates once strategic orders are given.
Escalating Security Concerns and the Role of Sponsors
Despite his defense of the presidency, Adeboye acknowledged a severe deterioration in national security, noting that terrorism and kidnappings—previously concentrated primarily in northern Nigeria—have now expanded into the southern region. He expressed deep concern over the escalating violence, stating that the situation has severely impacted local communities.
According to Adeboye, the root of the prolonged conflict lies with the influential figures funding these criminal networks. He characterized the sponsors of terrorism as wealthy and powerful individuals, including prominent politicians and business leaders. The cleric emphasized that neutralizing these financiers, who supply arms and ammunition to insurgents operating across the country, remains the most critical step to ending the security crisis.
Proposing a 90-Day Military Ultimatum
| Key Recommendations Proposed by Pastor Adeboye |
| 1. Strict Accountability: Issue a mandatory 90-day deadline for military chiefs to eliminate terrorism or face resignation. |
| 2. Target the Financiers: Launch targeted investigations and operations against wealthy political and business sponsors. |
| 3. International Collaboration: Form strategic alliances with global partners, specifically requesting defense support from the United States. |
Adeboye disclosed that he had met privately with President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu to address these concerns directly. During the meeting, he advised the president to enforce strict accountability within the defense sector by issuing a 90-day ultimatum to all military heads—spanning the army, navy, and air force—to neutralize the threat of terrorism or step down from their positions.
Concluding his address, the religious leader called on international allies, particularly the United States, to collaborate more closely with Nigeria and provide international support to effectively combat the ongoing insurgency.