Nigerian Cleric Calls for Removal of Shettima and Ribadu, Claims Tinubu's 'Hand is Tied'
Reverend Demands Removal of VP Shettima, NSA Ribadu

In a bold and direct critique of Nigeria's current administration, a cleric has publicly demanded the removal of two of its most prominent figures. Reverend Dachomo, in a video message that has since gone viral, singled out Vice President Kashim Shettima and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, for severe criticism.

Clergy's Scathing Critique of Top Officials

The video, released and widely circulated on Tuesday, December 17, 2025, features Reverend Dachomo delivering a pointed assessment of the country's leadership. He reserved his harshest words for National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, whom he described in unequivocal terms.

Reverend Dachomo labeled Ribadu as "a failure in office" and declared him "not capable of the office." He went further to characterize the NSA as a "fanatic," leaving no room for ambiguity in his demand for Ribadu's immediate removal from his sensitive security role.

The cleric's condemnation, however, was not limited to the security chief. He explicitly stated that Ribadu should be sacked "alongside Shettima, the Vice President of Nigeria." This dual demand suggests a deep-seated dissatisfaction with the performance and dynamics within the upper echelons of President Bola Tinubu's government, raising questions about the administration's cohesion and effectiveness in tackling national issues.

Surprising Support for President Tinubu Amidst Criticism

Despite his fierce attack on the Vice President and the NSA, Reverend Dachomo struck a notably different tone when speaking about the nation's leader. He expressed a measure of sympathy and support for President Bola Tinubu.

The Reverend revealed that he is actively praying for the President, adding a curious justification: "His hand is tied." This statement implies a belief that President Tinubu is being constrained or limited in his executive actions, possibly by the very officials the cleric is criticizing or by other political forces. This nuanced position adds a layer of complexity to the public intervention, framing the President as a figure who may wish to act but is unable to do so freely.

Potential Political Repercussions and Analysis

The public release of this video has ignited significant discussion within Nigeria's political and social circles. Such a direct and personal challenge from a religious figure to sitting high-ranking officials is uncommon and carries considerable weight.

Political analysts note that statements of this nature from clergy members can resonate deeply with the public and potentially spark wider debate about governance and accountability. The video forces a public conversation on the performance of the National Security Adviser amidst ongoing security challenges and the role of the Vice President within the administration's power structure.

The incident highlights the ongoing intersection of faith, public commentary, and politics in Nigeria. It remains to be seen whether this public call for dismissal will elicit any official response or lead to increased scrutiny of the named officials' records. The underlying suggestion that the President's "hand is tied" may also become a focal point for opposition and public discourse regarding the administration's internal dynamics and decision-making processes.