Warns of Looming Crisis
In a candid and provocative interview with Adeola Fayehun, monitored by ABNews, Reverend Ladi Thompson issued a stark warning on what he described as a dangerous convergence of terrorism, politics, and national security failures that could push Nigeria into greater instability if not urgently addressed.
The respected cleric argued that Nigeria’s leadership and security establishment are grappling with a complex network of violent actors—ranging from Boko Haram to ISWAP-controlled Ansaru—whose operations, he said, have been fueled by years of political compromises and covert deals.
According to Rev. Thompson, current President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stepped into office surrounded by “many hydra-headed factors,” insisting that political leaders in the country have historically underestimated the extent to which extremist groups have infiltrated governance structures.
Alleged Terror Links and the Niger State Bombing
Rev. Thompson revisited the bombing of a Catholic church in Niger State, alleging that the suspected mastermind had been in Snake Island, Lagos, shortly before the attack. He narrated how the suspect was arrested, mysteriously escaped, and was eventually re-arrested inside the lodge of a serving senior government figure from Borno State.
“That individual is today the Vice President of Nigeria,” he declared, adding that such developments reveal how deeply terror networks have penetrated political circles.
“Tinubu is one heartbeat away,” he cautioned. “He doesn’t fully understand the magnitude of the crisis he has involved himself in.”
Fear of Power Vacuum and Terrorist Ambitions
The cleric suggested that extremist groups have long been positioning themselves for a future political advantage. He referred to early incidents following President Tinubu’s inauguration—including kidnappings and bombings accompanied by huge ransom demands—as coded warnings to the government.
He warned that if any harm were to befall the President, Nigeria could be thrown into a succession crisis that terrorist factions might exploit.
“If the country falls into the hands of Boko Haram, even the Fulani won’t be happy,” he said, pointing to internal rivalries among violent groups.
Criticism of Past Administrations
Rev. Thompson also revisited allegations linked to former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, whom he accused of previously acknowledging payments to terrorists. He argued that such actions emboldened violent groups and expanded their influence.
He added that certain political actors who once opposed former President Muhammadu Buhari’s handling of security issues were themselves “deeply involved” in the compromises that strengthened insurgent networks.
Warning of National Breakdown and Moral Consequences
Expressing deep frustration, Rev. Thompson said Nigeria is now facing a rare opportunity to confront its security challenges, reform governance structures, and reverse decades of infiltration.
“We need to reformat this country,” he declared. “If we mishandle this moment, even God will look away.”
He highlighted the plight of vulnerable populations—including teenage girls in the East—and condemned the rising wave of violence, saying Nigeria’s moral silence is enabling continued atrocities.
He also cited the case of a blogger who dismissed claims of genocide but was later killed in a church attack in Kwara State, saying it illustrated the consequences of ignoring systemic danger.
Foreign Concerns and Spiritual Implications
On international reactions, Rev. Thompson addressed comments reportedly attributed to former U.S. President Donald Trump, insisting that any external involvement should be seen as “intervention,” not interference.
He emphasized that while the U.S. designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) reflects global alarm, he believes Nigeria’s situation carries spiritual weight beyond diplomatic classifications.
“God Himself has declared Nigeria a country of particular concern,” he asserted.
