Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has spoken out on Nigeria’s worsening insecurity and surge in kidnapping cases, dismissing claims that he has remained silent on national issues. In a recent message shared across his social media platforms, Adeboye emphasized the need for urgent government action, urging security chiefs to eliminate terrorists within 90 days or face resignation. The church has also publicly refuted allegations that Adeboye is inactive on critical national matters, stating that he has consistently addressed issues like corruption, economic hardship, elections, and governance.
Adeboye acknowledged the limits of his influence over national policy, explaining that while he can advise the president, he cannot command him. “You can only advise the commander in chief. You can’t command him. Because if you command the commander in chief, then you become the commander of the commander in chief. That doesn’t make sense. But I’ve tried. And God is my witness,” he said. His remarks reflect a long-standing concern about the government’s response to insecurity, which has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions across the country.
He recalled a previous instance when a former president gave similar instructions to service chiefs, only for the directive to be unfulfilled. “When three months passed and the work wasn’t done, why didn’t you proceed with your threat? I won’t tell you the details, but one thing came out of that meeting which leads me to my next advice,” Adeboye shared. He stressed that any new directive must target not only armed groups but also their sponsors, regardless of their influence or status.
“When giving orders to the service chiefs this time around, we should make it clear to them that they are not only to eliminate the terrorists, they should eliminate their sponsors — no matter how influential they may be,” he stated. This call for accountability extends beyond military action, urging a systemic approach to tackling the root causes of insecurity.
Addressing his congregation directly, Adeboye said, “I’m talking to you as my children. If I were asked to make suggestions, I would say quietly to our government, move fast.” His message resonated with many Nigerians, with social media users expressing support and urging him to lead another protest, as he did during the Jonathan administration in 2014. Some criticized the government’s inaction, while others praised Adeboye for speaking up amid rising public frustration.
As Nigeria grapples with one of its most challenging security periods, Adeboye’s voice adds to the growing chorus demanding decisive leadership and accountability. His call for swift action may signal a renewed push for national reform, as citizens continue to demand safety and justice.
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