Odumeje sparks reactions with comments on insecurity and silent religious leaders

Popular cleric Chukwuemeka Odumeje, widely known as Pastor Odumeje, has stirred reactions online after speaking about the state of insecurity in Nigeria and the role of religious leaders.

Speaking to his congregation during a church sermon, the controversial preacher urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and take responsibility for their safety, both physically and spiritually, amid growing security concerns across the country.

“As a Nigerian, you need to guide yourself physically and spiritually. I see bandits and terrorists freely carrying guns and looking for people to kill,” he said.

Odumeje expressed concern over the rising cases of violence and insecurity, stressing that citizens should not ignore the realities around them.

The cleric also criticised pastors who remain silent about the challenges facing the country, insisting that religious leaders have a responsibility to address issues affecting their members and society.

“If your church and pastor are not talking about what is happening in Nigeria, then that pastor is an animal,” he stated.

His remarks have sparked mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians agreeing that religious leaders should speak more openly about national issues, while others felt his choice of words was too harsh.

Odumeje’s comments have added to ongoing conversations about insecurity in Nigeria and the responsibility of faith leaders to address societal challenges and advocate for their congregations.

Watch the video below…

“As a Nigerian, you need to guide yourself physically and spiritually. I see båndits and terrørists freely carrying g√ns and looking for people to k!l|. If your church and pastor are not talking about what is happening in Nigeria, then that pastor is an an|mal.”

— Pastor… pic.twitter.com/DtnGCqyiwA

— CHUKS 🍥 (@ChuksEricE) June 25, 2026