The General Overseer of Evangelical Outreach Ministries International, Jos, Prophet Isa El-Buba, has criticised the government’s handling of Nigeria’s security challenges, warning that continued killings and kidnappings show the situation is far from under control.
Speaking in an interview, El-Buba said the spate of attacks in Plateau State—where he has lived for years—remains alarming. He cited recent killings in Riyom and Pushit communities as examples of the persistent violence, noting that kidnappings across the region continue to worsen despite fewer large-scale attacks in recent weeks.
He stressed that the insecurity is not limited to Plateau State, insisting that other states such as Benue, Borno, and Zamfara also remain deeply affected. He described recent Boko Haram attacks in Borno, including the deaths of officers, as evidence that the government’s approach has not been effective.
‘Nigeria must confront the truth’
El-Buba said insecurity must be addressed “head-on,” likening it to treating an open wound. He argued that the country has been “building on falsehoods,” which he believes has worsened the crisis.
The cleric alleged that initial attacks were targeted at Christian communities and claimed that some Fulani religious figures supported the violence at the time. According to him, the crisis has now spiralled beyond control.
He accused politicians of exploiting insecurity for personal gain, saying this has prolonged conflicts such as the Boko Haram insurgency. “Anyone who tries to confront the issue is either removed or transferred,” he added.
On service chiefs and political will
While refraining from judging the new service chiefs, El-Buba said he has yet to see tangible results. He noted that many security professionals are willing to act but lack the political backing necessary to make meaningful progress.
He urged President Bola Tinubu to prioritise national security over ethnic or political considerations, adding that soldiers were being lost unnecessarily despite the heavy investment required to train them.
El-Buba revealed that he had prepared an open letter advising the President to strengthen ties with international allies, particularly the United States. He said Nigeria needs firm leadership, empowered communities, and a military free from political interference.
On Trump’s threat of military intervention
Responding to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comments about possible military action in Nigeria over alleged Christian genocide, El-Buba expressed support for the stance.
He argued that Nigeria’s stability is vital not only for Africa but for global security, describing Africa as a continent rich in minerals, food resources, and intellectual capacity. According to him, the world—especially America—benefits from a stable Nigeria.
‘U.S. collaboration can help Nigeria’
El-Buba insisted that U.S. intervention would not involve indiscriminate attacks but targeted action against key terror leaders. He cited past examples—including U.S. intelligence during the Chibok girls’ abduction and successes recorded with foreign mercenaries during the Jonathan administration—as proof that international support can be effective.
However, he blamed corruption within Nigeria’s security architecture for hindering progress, claiming that funds meant for operations are diverted rather than used to support troops.
He concluded by urging the government to embrace transparency and genuine partnerships to defeat insurgency and restore peace across the country.
