How South-West can Rackle Raging Insecurity – Prophet Olu-Alo – THISDAYLIVE

The Founder and Planter of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Adamimogo Grace of Mercy Prayer Mountain Worldwide, Prophet Sam Olu-Alo, has called for greater unity among stakeholders as a crucial step towards addressing the growing insecurity in Nigeria’s South-West region.

The renowned cleric said collective action, stronger security architecture, constitutional reforms, and improved community participation are necessary to curb the rising cases of kidnapping and other criminal activities across the region.

Speaking during an interview on national issues, Prophet Olu-Alo attributed the worsening security situation partly to political insincerity and the activities of individuals allegedly sponsoring criminal elements.

According to him, intensified military operations against terrorists in northern Nigeria have forced many criminal groups to seek alternative locations, leading to increased security concerns in other parts of the country, including the South-West.

“The weakest point for security in Nigeria today is the South-West. Unlike the North, where open terrain makes it easier for security agencies to track terrorists, the South is covered by thick forests that provide hiding places for criminal elements. However, this challenge can be overcome if we work collectively,” he said.

He noted that kidnapping has become a lucrative criminal enterprise because of the huge ransoms demanded by abductors, while weak legal sanctions have further emboldened offenders.

“Our laws are too weak to deal with kidnappers. The punishment is often imprisonment, and even that takes years because of delays in the judicial process. There is an urgent need to strengthen our laws and amend relevant sections of the Constitution to address present-day security challenges,” he stated.

Prophet Olu-Alo also expressed concern over reports suggesting that some influential individuals may be aiding criminal activities, stressing that both powerful sponsors and ordinary citizens who assist kidnappers should be held accountable.

“We cannot ignore reports suggesting that powerful individuals are supporting these criminals. At the same time, ordinary citizens who provide food, shelter, or information to kidnappers are equally culpable. Security is everyone’s responsibility,” he said.

On the role of technology in combating insecurity, the cleric advocated improved data management, surveillance systems, and the deployment of modern security tools.

He described the lack of accurate population data as a major challenge to effective security planning and urged government authorities to embrace technological solutions similar to those being used in developed countries.

“In developed countries, technology is deployed extensively to combat terrorism. They use drones, surveillance systems, and advanced intelligence gathering. We can achieve the same if there is sufficient political will. Accurate data is essential for proper security planning and resource allocation,” he said.

Prophet Olu-Alo also called for the installation of CCTV cameras in strategic locations while urging authorities to ensure that justice is applied fairly, regardless of social status.

Commenting on community security initiatives, he praised the role of local hunters and vigilante groups, describing them as important partners in tackling insecurity.

He recalled that prominent Yoruba activists had raised concerns years ago about the possible infiltration of terrorists into the South-West and urged regional leaders to put aside political and religious differences in the interest of public safety.

“Rather than being divided by religion and politics, our people should unite against a common enemy. The fight against insecurity requires the involvement of everyone,” he said.

Drawing lessons from the biblical account of Nehemiah, the cleric stressed that security is a shared responsibility involving government, security agencies, religious leaders, community leaders, and citizens.

“The security agencies have their role. Religious leaders have their role. Community leaders, local hunters, and ordinary citizens also have responsibilities. We must report suspicious movements and activities to security agencies. Security is a collective responsibility,” he added.

Prophet Olu-Alo further urged Nigerians to prioritise leadership qualities over political affiliations when electing public office holders.

“What Nigeria needs today are leaders, not merely politicians. Politicians make promises, but leaders fulfil them. Many of our challenges persist because genuine leadership has been overwhelmed by politics,” he said.

He called on governments at all levels to strengthen security institutions, support community-based intelligence gathering, and promote unity among citizens as part of efforts to restore peace and safety across the country.