Dr. Ope Banwo, founder of the advocacy group Naija Lives Matter (NLM), has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deploy his renowned political acumen in decisively and transparently addressing the growing threat of homicidal terrorists across the country.
Banwo made the call in a video monitored by The Octopus News on Friday, November 14.
Describing President Tinubu as “one of the shrewdest politicians Nigeria has ever produced,” Banwo said the time had come for the administration to “get its act together” and initiate forceful, well-coordinated actions aimed at eliminating terror groups operating in the country.
He further charged the President to seize the initiative by seeking international support, including from U.S. President Donald Trump or “any other partner he deems fit.” According to Banwo, a nation under siege cannot afford to reject help due to pride.
“A man whose house is on fire does not turn away neighbours with buckets of water simply because he owns the house,” he said, urging Tinubu to lead an all-out global offensive against terrorists and bandits. Such a move, he argued, would help dispel allegations in some quarters that the government is condoning or enabling the activities of violent extremists.
Banwo also encouraged the President to transform what he termed “the biggest threat to his legacy” into a rallying point that could strengthen his prospects for a second term.
“Crush these terrorists and the nation will have no choice but to celebrate you,” he said. “But continue to deny reality, and your fate may turn out worse than that of Goodluck Jonathan, who at least left office with his dignity intact.”
Drawing historical parallels, Banwo cautioned Tinubu against being “a Nero fiddling with trifles while Rome burned,” instead urging him to emulate Winston Churchill, who embraced every necessary ally to defend his people against the Nazis.
“Be a leader and prove to everyone that your Muslim/Muslim ticket carries no hidden agenda. National pride is for nations that can protect themselves — and at the moment, all evidence shows Nigeria is not protecting itself,” he concluded.
