“Insecurity is now more dangerous than corruption in Nigeria.”
That was the sobering warning from President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Francis Wale Oke, as he called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take firmer and more decisive action against terrorism, banditry, and internal sabotage within the nation’s security system.
Speaking during a media interaction in Ibadan, the respected Christian leader expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s worsening security situation, stressing that the country’s future depends largely on how urgently and effectively the federal government confronts the menace. According to him, insecurity has reached a level where it now threatens national unity, economic growth, and the everyday safety of ordinary citizens.
Bishop Wale Oke urged President Tinubu to go beyond surface-level reforms and focus on exposing compromised elements within the security agencies. He warned that internal “moles” who leak intelligence and frustrate operations are a major reason terrorists continue to operate freely in parts of the country.
“If insecurity is not brought down, insecurity will eventually bring Nigeria down,” the PFN President cautioned.
As President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Bishop Wale Oke represents millions of Christians nationwide. His remarks reflect growing frustration within the faith community and among ordinary Nigerians who believe that insecurity now poses a greater threat to national survival than corruption.
“Government Is Not a Church”
Bishop Oke strongly criticized policies that treat terrorists and bandits as “repentant” without clear accountability. According to him, while forgiveness has a place in religion, governance requires justice and firm enforcement of the law.
“There is nothing like a repentant terrorist when it comes to national security,” he stated. “Government is not a church service. Its responsibility is to protect lives and enforce justice.”
He argued that leniency without consequences only emboldens criminal networks and undermines the sacrifices of security personnel risking their lives on the frontlines.
Security Reform and International Support
While acknowledging recent changes in Nigeria’s security leadership, Bishop Oke noted that appointments alone are not enough. He called for stronger intelligence gathering, better coordination among agencies, and swift action on credible information.
He also welcomed Nigeria’s growing security cooperation with international partners, including the United States, describing such collaborations as necessary and strategic in tackling modern security threats.
A Call for Unity and Responsible Leadership
Beyond government action, Bishop Oke urged religious and community leaders to promote peace and unity, warning against the misuse of religion to fuel violence or spread fear. He cautioned Nigerians against unverified prophecies that could destabilize the nation, especially during tense times.
Despite the grim assessment, the PFN President expressed cautious optimism that with decisive leadership, Nigeria could witness a significant reduction in insecurity in the coming years. He added that improved security would restore public confidence, strengthen the economy, and reduce the growing wave of emigration among young Nigerians.
