The Spiritual Head of Soul Revival Outreach in Nnewi, Anambra State, Prophet Ikechukwu Uzukwu, has criticized the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, over his recent comments defending President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Prophet Uzukwu accused the respected cleric of attempting to justify what he described as the Federal Government’s poor performance, particularly in tackling insecurity and addressing the country’s economic challenges.
His reaction follows remarks reportedly made by Pastor Adeboye during an event in Washington, D.C., where the RCCG leader said President Tinubu was doing his best to confront Nigeria’s security challenges. Adeboye reportedly argued that the President could not personally wear military uniform or go to the battlefield to fight criminals.
Responding to the comments, Uzukwu expressed disappointment that Pastor Adeboye used an international platform to defend the Nigerian government instead of highlighting the hardships faced by millions of Nigerians.
According to the Anambra-based cleric, the country is battling widespread insecurity, rising economic hardship and declining living standards, realities he believes should not be overlooked.
He argued that as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Tinubu bears ultimate responsibility for the successes and failures of his administration.
The President is responsible for the security and general welfare of Nigerians. Leadership comes with accountability, Uzukwu said.
The prophet maintained that if Pastor Adeboye was unwilling to speak openly about the nation’s challenges, it would have been preferable for him not to comment on the issue.
He further questioned whether the RCCG leader would have taken the same position if members of his own family had fallen victim to kidnapping or other forms of violent crime.
According to Uzukwu, many ordinary Nigerians continue to face serious security threats while struggling with economic difficulties, making it inappropriate to portray the government as having done enough.
Uzukwu also recalled Pastor Adeboye’s public stance during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, when the cleric participated in activities expressing concern over insecurity and rising fuel prices.
He argued that religious leaders should remain consistent in speaking truth to those in authority regardless of which political party is in power.
The prophet alleged that influential religious figures have a responsibility to hold leaders accountable instead of appearing to defend government policies that many citizens consider ineffective.
The comments add to the ongoing national debate over the role of religious leaders in political discourse and governance.
While some Nigerians believe respected clerics should openly support governments where necessary and encourage national unity, others insist that they have a moral obligation to challenge leaders whenever policies fail to improve citizens’ welfare.
Pastor Adeboye has not publicly responded to Prophet Uzukwu’s criticism at the time of this report.
