In a strong call to action, the President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Francis Wale Oke, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intensify efforts until the nation is completely safe from all security threats.
A Firm Stance Against Insecurity
Speaking with journalists in Ibadan on Sunday, December 28, 2025, Bishop Oke declared that insecurity has now surpassed corruption as Nigeria's most dangerous challenge. He insisted that terrorists and bandits must be crushed decisively, with no room for favoritism.
"Don't relent until Nigeria is fully secured. Spare no one. Allow no sacred cows. If you don't bring insecurity down, it will bring this country down," the prominent Christian leader stated emphatically.
He completely dismissed the idea of negotiating with or rehabilitating those he termed "merchants of death," describing such approaches as a dangerous threat to national stability. "There is nothing like repentant terrorists. Governance is not a church service," Oke asserted, warning that their alleged repentance could be a ploy to weaken the system from within.
Commendation for Renewed Momentum and International Cooperation
The PFN President acknowledged and praised what he sees as a renewed vigor from the Tinubu administration in tackling the nation's security crises. He specifically commended the decision to collaborate with international partners, notably the United States under President Donald Trump.
"We commend the President for moving fast and for cooperating with the United States to flush out these bandits," Oke said. He clarified that this strategic partnership should not be misconstrued as a submission of Nigeria's sovereignty, but rather as essential cooperation to defeat criminals who have turned vast areas into killing fields.
Oke called for national unity in the face of violence, stressing that the protection of every Nigerian life is paramount. "No Nigerian should die anyhow, whether Christian or Muslim," he said, urging that anyone who inflicts pain on citizens must face the full force of the law.
Beyond Palliatives: A Call for Good Governance and Hope
While recognizing government efforts to alleviate economic hardship through palliatives, Bishop Oke argued that such measures are insufficient. He called for deeper systemic change centered on good governance and a relentless fight against corruption.
"We need more than palliatives. We need good governance. Don't create a safe haven for those who have stolen our money. Anti-corruption efforts must be fair, firm, and decisive," he advised.
Despite the gravity of the challenges, the cleric concluded with a powerful message of hope for the nation. Quiring from the Book of Job, he expressed unwavering confidence in Nigeria's resilience. "There is hope for Nigeria... Nigeria will survive. There is great hope, great blessings, and great joy ahead. Nigeria will be better," Oke proclaimed, urging citizens to remain united, prayerful, and determined.
