Two of Nigeria's most prominent clerics, Pastor William Kumuyi and Pastor Enoch Adeboye, have offered sharply contrasting views on how to address the country's escalating security crisis. While Kumuyi insists that only divine intervention can resolve the situation, Adeboye has defended President Bola Tinubu's approach but called for tougher action against terrorists.
Kumuyi: God is the only solution
Pastor William F. Kumuyi, General Superintendent of Deeper Christian Life Ministry, stated unequivocally that neither President Tinubu nor any political leader holds the key to ending Nigeria's insecurity. He made the remarks during a courtesy visit to the Benue State Government House, ahead of a week-long Global Crusade in Gboko and Otukpo Local Government Areas.
Speaking to journalists after the visit, Kumuyi said: "God remains the ultimate solution to the nation’s challenges. We know that, when bad things happen, there are people who are responsible for it, but the people are not the solution. God is our problem solver."
His comments come amid persistent deadly attacks by armed groups, kidnappers, and other criminal elements across Nigeria, particularly in Benue State, which has witnessed numerous tragic killings in recent months. Residents have repeatedly called on the Federal Government to improve security. During the visit, Benue State Deputy Governor Sam Ode, representing Governor Hyacinth Alia, reaffirmed the state's commitment to promoting peace despite the challenges, emphasizing the administration's focus on building a peaceful, united, and inclusive Benue.
Adeboye defends Tinubu, calls for ultimatum
Just days before Kumuyi's statement, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), publicly defended President Tinubu over criticism about the worsening insecurity. Speaking at the US-Nigeria Faith Heroes Award Gala organized by the Save Nigeria Group in Washington on June 23, Adeboye argued that many Nigerians unfairly blame the president.
"I don’t support those accusing the president of not doing enough," Adeboye said. "When the commander-in-chief has given instructions to his subordinates, he has done his bit. You don’t expect him to put on khaki and go to the battlefield."
Adeboye compared Tinubu's role to that of United States President Donald Trump, noting that heads of state issue military orders but are not expected to personally fight on frontlines. However, the respected cleric acknowledged that insecurity has worsened across Nigeria. He challenged Tinubu to take stronger steps by giving military commanders a 90-day deadline to eliminate terrorism or resign, while also directing security agencies to identify and dismantle the financial networks sponsoring terrorists.
Growing concern over security crisis
Although both pastors approached the issue from different angles, their comments reflect the deepening concern over Nigeria's security situation. While Kumuyi believes divine intervention remains the ultimate answer, Adeboye insists that the government must continue to act decisively by ensuring security agencies deliver results. The differing perspectives highlight the ongoing debate among religious leaders about the role of faith versus government action in tackling the nation's challenges.
