LAGOS, Nigeria – Tunde Bakare, the serving overseer of The Citadel Global Community Church, has advised President Bola Tinubu to take immediate and decisive action to steer Nigeria out of its worsening crisis.
Speaking during his state of the nation broadcast on Sunday, April 20, 2025, Bakare called for the implementation of a “coordinated programme” to address the escalating challenges facing the country, stressing that Nigerians have prayed enough and now require pragmatic steps to prevent the country from spiraling further into chaos.
Bakare expressed concern over the increasing levels of violence and insecurity in the country, noting that regions such as Plateau and Benue have been particularly hard hit by kidnappings and killings.
“People of faith have prayed to the point of weariness, and any call for prayer now appears to be a mere religious ritual,” Bakare said, emphasizing that it is time for tangible action to protect Nigeria from descending into a “mafia state.”
The cleric went on to urge the president to face the reality of Nigeria’s situation with honesty and courage.
“Only by confronting our reality with honesty and courage can we begin the work of resurrection – not just of our nation, but of our collective broken spirits,” Bakare stated.
Addressing President Tinubu directly, Bakare cautioned him about the dangers of unchecked power, quoting, “No man is wise enough nor good enough to be trusted with unlimited power.”
He continued, urging the president to reflect deeply on these words and reconsider the concentration of power in the hands of the executive.
Bakare also criticized the Senate’s suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central and condemned the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, which was ratified by the National Assembly.
He expressed concern over the growing authoritarian tendencies in the country, accusing the government of destabilizing Nigeria’s political institutions.
“It is clear that our so-called leaders are determined to turn Nigeria into a mafia state,” Bakare said, highlighting the power struggle between the executive and the legislature.
Calling for greater accountability in Nigerian leadership, Bakare suggested that politicians seeking elective office undergo psychological evaluations to ensure they are fit to govern.
He also proposed comprehensive reforms to stabilize the country’s economy, reduce its reliance on oil, and implement structural changes for inclusive growth.
Bakare emphasized the need for a “consolidated value investment and development fund” (COVID Fund), aimed at spurring economic recovery and long-term growth.
He advocated for a new approach to economic management that moves away from relying on volatile factors such as oil prices and external financial aid.
In closing, Bakare expressed hope that with responsible leadership, Nigeria could overcome its challenges and “live again,” urging all Nigerians to rally behind efforts for national survival and prosperity.
