Popular cleric Prophet Chukwuemeka Ohanaemere, widely known as Odumeje, has publicly criticized the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, over his recent comments defending President Bola Tinubu's handling of Nigeria's security challenges.
The controversy stems from a June 23 address delivered by Adeboye at the U.S.-Nigeria Faith Heroes Award Gala, where he argued that President Tinubu had fulfilled his constitutional responsibility by directing the military and security agencies to address insecurity. According to Adeboye, the President cannot be expected to personally participate in combat operations.
“I need to make this one clear: I don’t support those who are accusing the president of not doing enough. When the commander-in-chief has given instructions to his subordinates, he has done his bit. You don’t expect him to go and put on khaki and fight,” Adeboye said.
Reacting during a recent church service, Odumeje disagreed with the RCCG leader's position, arguing that religious leaders should speak out against governments they believe are failing the people rather than defend them.
“I don't want to talk about Pastor Adeboye because do you know what it means to be a pastor? A pastor should rebuke a bad government; they don't benefit from it. I'm disappointed with our own set of pastors. My generation feels like a failure. The way I'm angry, eehhh,” he said.
Odumeje further accused Nigerian politicians of mismanaging public resources while ordinary citizens continue to struggle. He argued that elected officials are meant to represent and serve the people, stressing that citizens should hold them accountable.
He also lamented that many political leaders use public funds to provide opportunities for their families while many Nigerians face economic hardship. Referring to the detention of separatist leader Nnamdi Kanu, Odumeje claimed that individuals who criticize those in power often become targets of government action.
The differing remarks from the two prominent clerics have sparked debate on social media, with many Nigerians discussing the role of religious leaders in addressing governance and national issues.
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