In a powerful response to the escalating security crisis in Nigeria, a cleric has taken a bold stand with a solitary demonstration that has captured national attention. Apostle Harrison Ayintete, founder of Goodness Nation, staged a dramatic solo protest on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, directly appealing to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive action against terrorism.
Emotional Plea on Empty Streets
The poignant scene unfolded as the pastor, dressed formally in a black suit, knelt on a deserted road holding a white cardboard with a heartfelt message. The sign read: "Dear President Tinubu, Please end terrorism!" This courageous act comes just two days after the devastating attack on a church in Kwara state on Tuesday, November 18, which has further heightened security concerns across the nation.
In a video shared on TikTok that has since gone viral, Apostle Harrison maintained his kneeling position, holding the placard above his head in a silent but powerful demonstration of desperation. The cleric's peaceful protest represents the growing frustration among Nigerians regarding the worsening security situation that has seen countless lives lost to violence.
Pastor's Statement: A Historical Perspective on Security Failures
In an extensive statement released online, Apostle Harrison provided context to his protest, reflecting on the continuous deterioration of security under successive administrations. He revealed that similar protests occurred during President Goodluck Jonathan's regime when citizens felt the government was handling the Boko Haram insurgency with "kid gloves," particularly during the emotional #BringBackOurGirls campaign.
The pastor expressed profound disappointment that the security situation has only worsened since then, contrary to public expectations. "When President Buhari came in, we felt he would destroy the Boko Haram terrorism," Harrison stated, noting instead that Nigeria has witnessed a decline in security that has accelerated under the current administration.
Harrison echoed the recent appeal made by Pastor Enoch Adeboye of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), urging President Tinubu to take swift action against terrorism. While expressing confidence in Tinubu's leadership capabilities, the pastor emphasized the urgent need for intervention, stating: "We live in fear, we are traumatized, we are really traumatized sir."
Public Reaction and Broader Implications
The pastor's solo protest has generated significant reactions online, with many Nigerians expressing support for his courage. Social media user Juwonix commented: "Apostle more grace Sir, how I wish other influencer MOGs can speak out too." Another respondent, Minister Daniel De Ordained, noted: "This is what we need, let's come out of social media."
Meanwhile, the Kwara state government has taken precautionary measures in response to the escalating security threats. The state has ordered the immediate closure of schools in Isin, Irepodun, Ifelodun and Ekiti Local Government Areas following fresh security reports indicating rising threats across border communities.
The Nigeria Union of Teachers confirmed the directive in a circular signed by state chairman Yusuf Agboola, indicating that the union acted on strict instructions from the Ministry of Education and Human Capital Development. This development highlights the broader impact of security challenges on daily life and education in affected regions.
