In a dramatic twist amidst Nigeria's spiraling insecurity, Lagos-based cleric Adebola Odubela has passionately urged Nigerians to reject dangerous calls for citizens to bear arms. As the country grapples with a surge in violent bandit attacks, the cleric's warnings come at a critical juncture, raising eyebrows and stirring emotions.

Speaking at a press conference for the 20th Annual Peniel Revivals Open-Air Crusade, Odubela declared that arming civilians could lead to even greater chaos. “What is important is that we should preach the word of God to our people. All these problems are temporary. If you say we should carry arms, yes, we may want to carry arms, but people would use them against themselves for no just reasons,” he asserted vehemently. His stance, while steeped in religious conviction, raises questions about the practicality of relying solely on faith in a time of fear.

As the Chairman of the Lagos District Sacred Cherubim and Seraphim Council, Odubela didn’t shy away from placing responsibility squarely on the government’s shoulders. He sternly reminded everyone that the government's primary role is to safeguard lives and property. “But where this is lacking, can we be worshipping in the church in fear that we can be attacked?” he provocatively asked, challenging the audience to reflect on their safety while seeking spiritual solace.

Odubela's fervent plea for collective prayer and government accountability comes as a double-edged sword. "We can only appeal to the government to expose these terrorists. Some people know them, and it is disheartening, but I know it is a matter of time. They are not strangers,” he insisted, implying that there are hidden networks of complicity that require urgent revelation.

The crusade's convener, Abraham Oyewole, added to the hype by announcing the event will be held from December 3 to 5 in the Agege area of Lagos, under the theme “Unavoidable Assignment,” drawn from 1 Corinthians 9:16. His enthusiasm was palpable as he expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from the community and security agencies, yet one must wonder if prayer alone is enough to combat the tide of insecurity.

“For 20 years, Peniel Revivals has stood as a beacon of hope in Agege and beyond. This year, we are believing in God for even greater dimensions of glory,” Oyewole proclaimed, highlighting the crusade's historical significance while the shadows of insecurity loom larger than ever.

As the debate over civilian armament intensifies, Odubela's insistence on spiritual resilience and faithfulness stands as a polarizing beacon. While his message may resonate with many yearning for peace, the critical question remains: will prayer alone suffice in securing a nation that feels increasingly unsafe?

In a climate where fear reigns and hope flickers, the cleric's passionate call for unity and prayer serves as both a comforting and contentious reminder of the role of faith in facing Nigeria's daunting challenges.