Former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) deputy national chairman, Bode George has criticised comments linked to the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, over his suggestion that Nigeria’s security chiefs should be given a 90-day ultimatum to end terrorism or resign.
George said the concerns about insecurity reflect the current challenges facing the country, but argued that such directives should not be directed at service chiefs in isolation. He maintained that responsibility for national security decisions lies with the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Tinubu.
He explained that Nigeria’s security structure follows a defined chain of command, where strategic decisions are issued from the Presidency through the defence hierarchy before reaching service chiefs. According to him, bypassing this system could disrupt coordination and affect operational effectiveness.
George added that while service chiefs are responsible for implementing defence strategies, they operate based on directives approved at the highest level of government. He stressed that timelines and expectations for national security operations are set within executive authority, not independently by military heads.
He also acknowledged the role of religious and civic leaders in national discourse, particularly on insecurity affecting citizens across the country. However, he cautioned that such interventions should align with constitutional procedures and established military command structures.
The debate follows widespread reactions to Adeboye’s earlier comments, in which he proposed a 90-day deadline for security chiefs to significantly address terrorism or step down. The remarks triggered discussion across political and religious circles.
In response, RCCG defended its General Overseer, stating that his comments were driven by concern over worsening insecurity and were not intended to undermine government or military authority.
The church said Adeboye has consistently spoken on national issues from a patriotic standpoint and urged Nigerians to view the remarks in the context of ongoing security challenges, including attacks and kidnappings in different parts of the country.
The exchange highlights continued public pressure on authorities to address insecurity as incidents persist across several regions.
