Rally behind Tinubu to end terrorism, Oyintiloye tells Nigerians

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has urged religious, community, and political leaders in the country to rally behind President Bola Tinubu in the fight against terrorism.

Speaking with newsmen in Osogbo on Sunday, Oyintiloye noted that at this critical period, Nigerians, irrespective of political or religious affiliations, should come together to support the President and join efforts to overcome the lingering security challenges facing the country.

The former lawmaker said the threat by former United States President Donald Trump to deploy military forces to Nigeria over alleged killings of Christians should be a source of concern to every Nigerian.

While acknowledging the efforts of the President and security agencies to end violent crimes, Oyintiloye stressed the need for unity to defend the nation’s sovereignty.

He noted that the security challenges did not begin with Tinubu’s administration but had evolved over time from terrorism to banditry. According to him, all religions in the country — Muslims, Christians, and others — have experienced the negative impacts of terrorism, adding that no religion could be said to be the sole target of the perpetrators of these heinous crimes.

Appreciating the concerns of the United States over the security situation in the country, he said that sharing intelligence information and providing U.S. military equipment support to fight insecurity would help Nigeria tackle and defeat the menace.

Oyintiloye, however, cautioned Nigerians, especially members of the opposition, to be mindful of their utterances at this period, adding that whatever happens will affect everyone.

“We must come together and rally behind the President at this period. Our religious or political affiliations are irrelevant; what we need is oneness and unity to protect the sovereignty of our dear country. Getting foreign support in terms of equipment will be good, but not the deployment of soldiers, as it may complicate the situation. What Tinubu needs at this time is the support of all Nigerians,” he said.