- RCCG says Pastor Adeboye’s comments on Nigeria’s insecurity were misinterpreted
- The church explained that his remarks were based on the full context of his speech, not social media clips
- It urged Nigerians to avoid politicising insecurity and focus on collective solutions
The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has said comments made by its General Overseer, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, on Nigeria’s security situation have been wrongly interpreted and taken out of context.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the clarification was issued by the Continental Overseer of RCCG Continent 3, Pastor Johnson Odesola, in a statement titled “Pastor Adeboye Deserves Fair Hearing, Not Unfair Criticism.”
He said many of the reactions were based on short video clips circulated on social media rather than the full message delivered at the US-Nigeria Faith Heroes Award Gala in Washington, D.C.
Odesola explained that Adeboye did not deny the severity of insecurity in Nigeria, but acknowledged that violence such as terrorism, kidnapping and banditry has expanded beyond the northern region into other parts of the country.
He added that the cleric’s remark that Nigerians should not expect the President to “wear khaki and go and fight” was meant to clarify the constitutional duties of a president as Commander-in-Chief, not to excuse any shortcomings in governance.
According to him, Adeboye’s message was aimed at distinguishing between political leadership, which provides direction, and the military and security agencies responsible for operations in the field.
Odesola further stated that the cleric actually called for accountability and stronger action from those tasked with securing the nation, including efforts to identify and stop individuals financing terrorist activities.
He stressed that insecurity networks rely on funding, weapons and logistical support, insisting that such operations cannot exist without backing from influential actors.
Responding to criticisms questioning Adeboye’s involvement in national issues, Odesola said religious leaders have historically contributed moral guidance and counsel during times of national difficulty.
He noted that Adeboye has consistently prayed for the country and offered advice to different governments over the years, regardless of political differences.
While acknowledging the right of Nigerians to disagree, he urged critics not to misrepresent the cleric’s statements.
Odesola also called for unity in addressing insecurity, saying the crisis should not be politicised but should instead involve cooperation among government institutions, security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders and citizens.
He maintained that the central message of Adeboye’s speech was a call for decisive leadership, accountability and collective action to tackle insecurity and those who support it financially.
