The Provincial Pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Ogun Province 4, Pastor Felix Kumapayi, has called on the Federal Government to end what he described as a soft approach to individuals allegedly sponsoring terrorism, banditry and other security threats across the country.
Kumapayi urged the administration of Tinubu to demonstrate firm political will by prosecuting those identified as financiers and promoters of insecurity, in line with existing laws.
He spoke with journalists at the weekend on the sidelines of the Hallelujah Mega Praise, Season 4, held at the church auditorium in Ogun State.
According to the cleric, the continued wave of insurgency, kidnapping and violent attacks has resulted in the loss of thousands of lives and caused serious economic damage, stressing that such a situation should not be handled with caution or political considerations.
“If the Federal Government truly has the names of those sponsoring terrorism, it should be bold enough to fish them out and make them face the full weight of the law,” he said.
Kumapayi maintained that the protection of lives and property remains a constitutional responsibility of government, adding that Nigerians deserve to feel safe in their homes, workplaces and places of worship.
“The government must not shy away from its responsibility to safeguard Nigerians. The scale of human and economic losses recorded so far demands decisive action,” he added.
On allegations of genocide against Christians, the RCCG pastor said it would be misleading to describe the insecurity situation as an attack on Christians alone, noting that both Christians and Muslims have been victims.
He explained that mosques, churches and adherents of different faiths have all suffered attacks, insisting that security challenges should not be viewed through a religious lens.
“This is not about Christianity or Islam. People of all faiths are affected. Security is the duty of government, irrespective of religion,” he said.
The Hallelujah Mega Praise programme, themed “Emmanuel (God With Us)”, featured praise and worship sessions, prayers for the nation and musical ministrations by gospel artistes.
Explaining the choice of theme, Kumapayi said it was inspired by the country’s security challenges and the need for Nigerians to hold on to hope.
“Emmanuel means God with us. If God is with us, we believe Nigeria will overcome its present challenges,” he said, urging citizens not to lose faith despite the prevailing difficulties.
He also advised national leaders to embrace godly values and pursue policies that would translate into good governance and tangible dividends of democracy for the people.
In addition, the cleric called on the Federal Government to ensure that revenues expected from the planned tax reforms in 2026 are managed transparently and used for the welfare of Nigerians.
“The concern of the people is not just about increased revenue, but whether such funds will be used appropriately. Government must remember that without the people, there can be no government,” he said.
