Founder of Evangelical Biblical Outreach Ministries International (EBOMI), Prophet Isa El-Buba, has called on President Bola Tinubu to intensify efforts to tackle insecurity across the country, saying government must prioritise the protection of lives above politics and elections.
El-Buba spoke in Jos during activities marking the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN)’s observance of Black Sunday, declared as part of a three-day national mourning and prayer programme over worsening insecurity and the killing of innocent Nigerians.
The cleric while addressing worshippers and participants at the gathering said June 12 Democracy Day should serve as a moment of reflection on leadership’s responsibility to guarantee security, justice and hope for citizens.
According to him, democracy must go beyond elections and voting to ensuring the protection of lives and property, equal opportunity and security for all Nigerians.
“Our nation today stands at a critical moment in history. Across many parts of this country, families live in fear of kidnappers, terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements.
“Too many innocent lives have been lost and too many communities have been displaced,” he said.
El-Buba said the bloodshed across the country must end.
“The bloodshed must stop. Every life matters. Every citizen deserves protection and every community deserves peace,” he stated.
Declaring security as the nation’s immediate priority, he said politics, elections and personal interests must take second place.
“What Nigeria needs most now is security. Before politics, before elections and before personal interests, we must secure the lives of Nigerians. No security, no election,” he said.
The prophet called on all levels of government and security agencies to intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks, secure vulnerable communities and restore public confidence.
He argued that Nigeria’s challenges extend beyond politics and economics, describing corruption, greed, injustice, dishonesty and abuse of power as factors weakening the country’s foundation.
According to him, the situation demands national moral renewal.
“To the church in Nigeria, this is not a time for silence, complacency or compromise. The church must recover its prophetic voice and become the conscience of the nation,” he said.
El-Buba also extended a message of partnership to Muslims across the country, urging religious communities to work together against violence and extremism.
“We speak not only to Christians but also to our Muslim brothers and sisters, and to all Nigerians who desire a peaceful, united and prosperous nation,” he said.
Speaking to young Nigerians, El-Buba commended youth participation in peaceful civic engagement and encouraged them not to lose hope.
“Nigeria still needs your energy, your creativity, your innovation and your patriotism. Refuse to become instruments of violence and division. Become builders of a better future,” he said.
The cleric maintained that Nigeria’s diversity remains a strength and expressed optimism that the country could overcome its present challenges through unity and responsible leadership.
Addressing President Tinubu directly, El-Buba said responsibility for national security rests with the office of the Commander-in-Chief.
This country that you are leading everything stops at your desk. If you will not get our children out of the forest, resign from your position. Nigerians entrusted you with leadership and you must lead Nigeria right,” he said.
He commended members of the Armed Forces for their sacrifices and expressed sympathy to families of security personnel who lost their lives in service.
Calling on citizens to remain vigilant and engaged, El-Buba urged Nigerians to continue demanding accountability while rejecting hatred and violence.
“We will not keep silent and we will not keep quiet until our nation is recovered. Let us reject hatred, reject violence and embrace justice, peace and national renewal,” he stated.
