Primate Elijah Ayodele, Founder of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has warned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against celebrating the recent United States military airstrikes carried out in Sokoto State, cautioning that the action could provoke violent reprisals from bandits and terrorist groups.
Ayodele stated that rather than weakening armed groups, the strike on the Islamic sect could escalate insecurity by triggering coordinated counter-attacks. He maintained that the development does not offer a sustainable solution to Nigeria’s long-standing security challenges.
The cleric’s warning was contained in a statement released by his media aide, Osho Oluwatosin. According to Ayodele, the U.S. intervention should not be interpreted as genuine assistance to Nigeria, describing it instead as an action motivated by Western strategic interests.
He argued that the airstrikes may further expose Nigeria to security risks and undermine ongoing efforts to address kidnapping, banditry, and insurgency. Ayodele emphasized that Nigeria’s security problems cannot be resolved through foreign intervention alone without a strong and coordinated domestic response.
“Nigerians should not be quick to celebrate, and President Tinubu should also exercise caution,” he said. “This situation exposes the limitations of the government, and external forces may act in ways that do not necessarily serve Nigeria’s interests. The airstrikes will not end kidnapping or insecurity in the country.”
He stressed that responsibility for safeguarding the nation rests primarily with the Nigerian government, noting that foreign powers cannot effectively address Nigeria’s security issues without the full involvement and leadership of local authorities.
Ayodele further warned that additional attacks could occur in response to the airstrikes, urging the government and security agencies to prepare for potential consequences. He called for improved coordination within the Nigerian military and a thorough review of existing security strategies to prevent further escalation.
The cleric also raised concerns about individuals allegedly involved in negotiations with bandits, describing them as a major hindrance to peace. He insisted that such persons must be investigated and prosecuted if the country is serious about ending terrorism and banditry.
While expressing reservations about the U.S. action, Ayodele acknowledged that American involvement could help expose those financing terrorism in Nigeria. However, he questioned the government’s approach toward individuals accused of negotiating with armed groups.
“Those negotiating with bandits are part of the problem,” he said. “If Nigeria is serious about tackling insecurity, the military must also address this issue with careful planning, so the situation does not deteriorate further.”
Source: Gistreel
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