The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, has delivered an urgent message to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following former US President Donald Trump's recent threat against Nigeria over alleged Christian persecution.
Diplomatic Action Needed Immediately
Speaking during the November Holy Ghost Service at the Redemption Camp on Friday, the respected cleric called for swift and careful diplomatic moves to prevent any escalation that could endanger the nation. Pastor Adeboye specifically proposed a 100-day window for the Nigerian government to convince American authorities to delay any potential actions.
"If I were asked to make suggestions," Adeboye stated, "I will say quietly to our government, move fast. Move diplomatically. Find a way to convince the president of America to please delay his actions for about a hundred days." He emphasized that while speed is essential, wisdom must guide these diplomatic efforts.
90-Day Ultimatum for Security Chiefs
The religious leader outlined a clear plan of action for the proposed grace period. He advised that within this 100-day window, the Nigerian government must take decisive steps against terrorism and insecurity nationwide. Adeboye specifically recommended that security chiefs be given a 90-day deadline to eliminate terrorist elements or face resignation.
"Then come home and tell our security chiefs: get rid of these terrorists within 90 days or resign," the RCCG leader declared during the service monitored by congregants and media representatives.
Recalling Previous Security Advice to Buhari
In a revealing moment, Pastor Adeboye recalled a private conversation with former President Muhammadu Buhari, who has since passed away. He disclosed that Buhari had once issued a similar three-month ultimatum to security chiefs to eliminate Boko Haram terrorists, acting on advice the cleric had provided during their private discussions.
"There was a president, unfortunately, he is dead now, that's Buhari, who issued such an order. He called the service chiefs and said, 'I give you three months, get rid of all these Boko Haram people or resign.' He's not around to tell you who gave him that advice," Adeboye revealed to the congregation.
The religious leader expressed disappointment that despite the initial progress, the former president didn't follow through with the ultimatum when the security chiefs failed to complete the task within the specified timeframe. Adeboye described a subsequent private meeting where he confronted Buhari about why he didn't enforce his own directive.
The current situation with Trump's threat has prompted the respected clergyman to speak out publicly, drawing from his past experiences with national security matters. His urgent counsel comes at a critical time when Nigeria faces international scrutiny over security and religious freedom concerns.
Pastor Adeboye's message represents significant intervention from one of Nigeria's most influential religious figures, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the need for immediate government action to address both domestic security challenges and international diplomatic pressures.
