Pastor Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to give Nigeria's security chiefs a 90-day deadline to defeat terrorists or step down from office. The revered cleric made the remark in a video reposted on his official X account on June 2, amid growing public concern over worsening insecurity, kidnappings, and terrorist attacks across the country.
Adeboye's Call for Accountability
According to Adeboye, security leaders should be judged by results rather than promises. In the video, he said, "If I were asked to make suggestions, I would say quietly to our government, move fast. And tell our security chiefs, get rid of these terrorists within 90 days, or resign." He explained that while religious leaders can advise government officials, ultimate authority rests with the Commander-in-Chief.
Adeboye also argued that security operations should not focus only on terrorists but also on those financing and supporting them, regardless of their social or political influence. Although the video resurfaced this week, reports indicate that Adeboye originally made the statement during an RCCG Holy Ghost Service in November 2025, in response to international concerns and statements from U.S. leadership. He noted that establishing definitive timelines is a standard leadership practice necessary for accountability, especially given the persistent security challenges facing the country.
Context of the Remarks
Adeboye's renewed comment comes at a sensitive time for both the church and the country. Nigeria has witnessed a fresh wave of public frustration over insecurity, with protests and online campaigns demanding stronger government action against kidnappings, banditry, and terrorism. Several recent incidents involving abducted schoolchildren and terrorism in rural communities have intensified calls for accountability from security agencies.
The remarks also surfaced shortly after RCCG issued a statement defending its General Overseer against what it described as false claims circulating online. The church said Adeboye had not campaigned for any political party and had not opposed citizens' constitutional right to protest.
First Lady's Pastoral Role
Another issue that recently drew public attention was the status of Nigeria's First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, who is an ordained pastor in RCCG. Responding to calls from some critics for her removal from the church's pastoral structure because of her position in government, Adeboye said the First Lady was ordained more than a decade ago after completing the church's required process. He stated that she had not violated RCCG guidelines and would not be removed due to political pressure.
Significantly, President Tinubu and the First Lady recently issued a joint state tribute to celebrate Pastor Adeboye on his 84th birthday, describing him as a "spiritual fortress" and one of Nigeria's greatest gifts.
Growing Demands for Action
As concerns over insecurity continue to dominate national conversations, Adeboye's latest call adds to the growing demands from religious leaders, civil society groups, and ordinary Nigerians for stronger, more measurable action from the country's security authorities.
