A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has urged religious, community, and political leaders in the country to rally behind President Bola Tinubu in the fight against terrorism.
Oyintiloye made this statement while speaking with newsmen in Osogbo on Sunday.
The former lawmaker urged Nigerians, regardless of political or religious affiliations, to unite in supporting the President and collectively address the persistent security challenges facing the country.
He said the threat by United States President Donald Trump to deploy military forces to Nigeria over alleged killings of Christians should be a matter of concern for every Nigerian.
The former lawmaker added that, while the President and security agencies are making efforts to tackle violent crimes, Nigerians must remain united to protect the country’s sovereignty.
Oyintiloye further noted that the current security challenges did not begin with Tinubu’s administration but have developed over a long period, ranging from terrorism to banditry. He emphasised that Nigeria has never been at war with any particular religion.
“We must come together and rally behind the President at this period. Our religious or political affiliations are irrelevant at this period; what we need is oneness and unity to protect the sovereignty of our dear country,” he said.
Appreciating the concerns of the United States over the security situation in the country, he further said sharing of intelligence information and US military equipment support to fight insecurity in the country would go a long way in helping Nigeria to tackle and defeat the menace of insecurity.
The APC chieftain, however, cautioned Nigerians, especially members of the opposition, to be mindful of their utterances at this period, adding that whatever happens will affect everyone.
Oyintiloye also urged the newly appointed military chiefs not to betray the trust reposed in them by the President and work hard to defeat terrorists in the country.
He appealed to them to do everything within their power to justify their appointment at this critical period.
“This is not a time to play opposition politics. We must all come to the realisation that all our hopes, aspirations, and dreams to get public offices rest squarely on the continued existence of Nigeria.
“Our current set of leaders will be there for a period of time and move on. But Nigerians must not walk into a trap that will make the country cease to exist. With the cooperation of all stakeholders, we have the capacity to end terrorism.
“Getting foreign support in terms of equipment will be good, but not the deployment of soldiers. It may complicate the situation and lead to a greater problem.
“The political, religious, and community leaders must be united in their resolve to protect the country. What Tinubu needs at this time is the support of all Nigerians,” Oyintiloye said.
Recall that on November 1, 2025, Trump announced via social media that he had directed the United States Department of Defence and the Pentagon to prepare for potential military action in Nigeria.
He cited what he described as large‑scale killings of Christians and said the U.S. would “immediately stop all aid and assistance” if Nigeria did not act.
