A viral video has captured widespread attention after a pastor, identified as Oloruntimilehin Daramola, delivered a stern warning to his church members regarding the rising wave of insecurity across Nigeria. He urged his congregation to “get fortified” and take practical measures to ensure their safety amidst attacks and kidnappings that have increasingly targeted communities, churches, and schools in various states.
Pastor Daramola, who serves as the Founder of The Omnipotence Mission of God, made the warning during a church gathering where he spoke passionately about the need for personal and communal security measures. The video shows him dressed in a purple robe and cap, with a cross chain around his neck, as he addressed members of his congregation directly.
Cleric urges members to act proactively
In the clip, the pastor stressed the importance of not leaving their safety entirely in the hands of others, insisting that his followers must take steps that could protect them from potential armed attacks. He suggested various means of defense, including the use of unconventional measures, and also appealed to the Federal Government to consider policies that would allow citizens wider access to protective tools such as firearms.
He referenced the historical context of Nigeria’s amalgamation, hinting at the possibility of peaceful regional separations if the nation’s current structure failed to guarantee safety, before returning to his core message urging members to fortify themselves. He said, “You members, go and do something that can protect you, so that if they come with guns to your surroundings, they will face each other and shoot each other.”
The pastor fortification warning continued, emphasizing his expectation that members act decisively: “Or you should get bees to chase them, or if they are coming to your church, they should be dead before getting there. Go and do it. Let me tell you, all my members must do it. If I say they should do it and they don’t, I will send them away, because I don’t want any of my members to die.”
Pastor explains his stance
Pastor Daramola defended his position by clarifying that he cannot remain safe while his congregation remains vulnerable. “I am a good shepherd. I cannot be looking while my members are being killed,” he stated. Drawing on examples of past attacks, he referenced incidents in Owo and Kaduna, where people prayed and called on the name of Jesus, yet many lives were still lost. “Jesus had the power to save them, but Jesus said, ‘Until you get to heaven.’ In Kaduna, the churches that they attacked, several of them called on the name of Jesus, but they were still killed. Why? Jesus said, ‘We will meet in heaven.’”
He further explained that his advice on fortification is not limited to Nigeria, noting that he has branches “in America, London, and even in Nigeria,” and encouraged members to meet him privately to learn what he described as “the right steps to take.”
Addressing criticisms, the pastor added, “If they like, refer to me as that pastor who is talking about charms. I don’t have any powers, but if you put me on the ground, I will bite you. Any of my members that I asked to use the charms and he doesn’t use it, I will chase him away because I cannot allow anybody to come and kill my children in my presence… Go and be fortified!!!”
Context of rising insecurity in northern states
The warning comes amid a surge in violent incidents across northern Nigeria. GistReel reports recent abductions, including schoolgirls in Kebbi and Niger States and worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State, highlighting the growing insecurity that has left residents and religious leaders concerned about safety. The pastor’s message reflects broader anxiety as communities seek ways to protect themselves in a country grappling with armed banditry, kidnappings, and repeated attacks on civilians and religious institutions.
Pastor Daramola’s message has since gone viral online, sparking debate over the responsibilities of religious leaders in times of crisis and the need for personal vigilance in ensuring security. Many viewers have applauded his proactive stance, while others have questioned the practicality and legality of some of his recommendations.