Popular cleric, Apostle Johnson Suleman, has called on the Federal Government to admit its security system is failing and allow Nigerians to defend themselves amid escalating violence in Benue State and other parts of the country.
In a post on X on Sunday, Suleman expressed deep frustration over the continued killings in Benue State, urging the government to be honest about its limitations.
"If the federal government knows it's overwhelmed or its security architecture has failed, they should be humble enough to tell the citizens," he wrote, emphasizing that self-defense is a constitutional right, particularly when the government cannot protect lives and property.
Call for Self-Defense
Addressing the people of Benue directly, Apostle Suleman urged them not to wait helplessly. "People of Benue, defend yourself. What is happening in Benue State is evil, barbaric, and a mayhem," he stated.
The cleric also criticized political leaders who are already focused on the 2027 elections while citizens are being killed in 2025. "It's ridiculous that people are thinking of 2027 whilst mayhem is being unleashed in 2025 on citizens they are supposed to govern. What happened to your humanity?" he questioned.
Suleman concluded his message with a poignant reflection: "There was a country..." indicating his dismay over the current state of the nation.
Ongoing Security Concerns
The situation in Benue State has drawn widespread concern, with various stakeholders commenting on the crisis. Recently, Bashir Ahmed described those behind the Benue killings as "enemies of us all," while the Benue State Assembly criticized Governor Alia for being "silent" on the matter.
The Nigerian Army has vowed to go after the attackers, acknowledging the severity of the situation. Meanwhile, activist Aisha Yesufu has suggested that President Tinubu's impeachment should be a topic of discussion due to the handling of the Benue crisis.
Reports indicate that parents have been besieging schools in the affected areas, demanding the release of their children amid safety concerns.
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