Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has stated that the duty of tackling insecurity in Nigeria lies with President Bola Tinubu as Commander-in-Chief, not solely with the Service Chiefs.
George Criticizes Adeboye's Remarks
George took exception to comments made by the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, who recently called on the Federal Government to give security chiefs a 90-day deadline to eliminate terrorists or resign. According to George, such counsel should be directed at the President because he holds the ultimate responsibility for the nation's security framework.
“Nobody is saying Pastor Adeboye should command the Commander-in-Chief. No. That is not even possible. But that advice should be directed at the President, not the Service Chiefs. He is the one who should do everything to ensure that Nigerians are safe,” George said.
Accountability Lies with the Presidency
The former PDP chieftain argued that since the President appoints the Service Chiefs, accountability for their performance should rest with the presidency. “Tinubu appointed the Service Chiefs. If they are not working, he has the power to give them ultimatum or fire them. The president should be held accountable for results in the fight against terrorism,” he added.
George, a retired military officer, expressed deep concern over the worsening insecurity, describing the situation as unacceptable. He lamented that security matters have been sidelined for political interests. “The most important issue in the country today is how to eliminate these blood-thirsty maniacs and that is the job of the Commander-in-Chief,” he said.
Rising Insecurity Threatens Democracy
George pointed to the increasing incidents of kidnappings and attacks across the country, warning that insecurity could jeopardize democratic participation in future elections. He called on the President to convene a high-level security meeting involving retired military officers, intelligence experts, serving security chiefs, and relevant stakeholders to review Nigeria's security strategy.
According to him, improved intelligence gathering, stronger inter-agency cooperation, better equipment, and operational efficiency are necessary to effectively tackle insecurity. George also urged authorities to take decisive action against sponsors of terrorism, stressing that the government has a constitutional responsibility to protect lives and property.
“The growing concern that not enough has been done to secure Nigerians is a reality that cannot be ignored,” he said. He added that the safety of citizens, security personnel, and communities across the country must remain a national priority.
