Senior pastor of Omega Fire Ministries International, Apostle Johnson Suleman, has commended Nigeria’s security agencies, describing the country’s military, the police and the Department of State Services (DSS) as some of the best he has encountered across the world.
The cleric made the remarks while speaking on the security situation in Nigeria. He praised security operatives for their efforts in the fight against terrorism, insurgency and other violent crimes, despite the challenges confronting them.
According to Suleman, many personnel put their lives on the line daily to protect the country but often become discouraged when suspected terrorists and criminals are arrested only to regain their freedom through the influence of powerful individuals.
“I’ve been around the world,” Suleman said, noting that his regular international travels have exposed him to different security systems. He maintained that Nigeria’s uniformed services compare favourably with many of their counterparts abroad.
The preacher also defended the activities of the DSS, saying the agency carries out intelligence operations and makes arrests regularly without seeking public attention. He argued that not every success recorded by security agencies is made public and urged Nigerians to support the institutions rather than constantly criticise them.
Speaking on possible solutions to the country’s security challenges, Suleman called for an end to open grazing and advised herders to adopt ranching. He also stressed the need for authorities to identify and prosecute those sponsoring and financing terrorist groups.
He claimed that many of the insurgents currently being confronted by security forces are descendants of people who entered the country years ago. While noting that many earlier fighters had been eliminated, he said another generation had emerged to continue the violence.
“Go after the sponsors. Who empowered them? Go after the sponsors,” he said.
Suleman further urged political leaders to put national security ahead of political calculations. According to him, the safety of citizens should take precedence over political meetings and electoral activities.
He added that leaders who believe they are unable to tackle insecurity should make way for others who can provide effective solutions.
“If you are saying you met insecurity you’re indirectly saying can’t fix it, resign. Let somebody else do it,” he said.