Lead Pastor of The Present House, Tony Rapu, has called on the Nigerian government to take decisive action against the growing wave of insecurity across the country, warning that violence and crime are spreading beyond their traditional strongholds.
In a statement addressing the nation’s security challenges, Pastor Rapu said Nigeria is facing a grave crisis marked by extremist violence, mass kidnappings and rampant criminality. He noted that what was once largely concentrated in Northern Nigeria now appears to be extending through the Middle Belt and into parts of the South.
Drawing from the Bible, Rapu argued that government has a divine responsibility to protect citizens and punish wrongdoing.
Quoting Romans 13:3–4, he said rulers are empowered by God to uphold justice and act against evil, stressing that governmental authority is not meant to be symbolic but effective.
“The government does not bear the sword in vain,” he stated, explaining that the “sword” represents the authority entrusted to leaders to restrain criminals, protect innocent citizens and enforce justice.
The cleric specifically referenced the kidnapping of children and teachers, as well as the reported killing of a teacher in Ogbomosho, Oyo State, describing the incidents as tragedies that demand urgent action.
According to him, government must not remain a passive observer while citizens live in fear.
“It must pursue wrongdoers, dismantle terror networks, enforce justice and restore peace to our communities,” he said.
While reaffirming the importance of praying for national leaders, Rapu maintained that public officials must also be held accountable to the responsibility entrusted to them.
He urged authorities to use the powers at their disposal to bring perpetrators of violence to justice and restore peace and security across Nigeria.
The pastor’s remarks come amid growing concerns over kidnappings, violent attacks and other security threats affecting communities in different parts of the country.