In a compelling Easter Sunday sermon on April 20, 2025, Pastor Tunde Bakare of the Citadel Global Community Church (CGCC) delivered a pointed message to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to “stop playing God” and to embrace humility in his leadership.
Bakare’s address, titled “State of the Nation,” criticized the current administration for its perceived disregard for democratic principles. He specifically condemned the executive’s influence over the National Assembly, describing it as an extension of the executive branch that undermines the separation of powers. He also questioned the legitimacy of the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, highlighting concerns over the treatment of opposition voices.
The pastor described the current situation as the executive having transformed the legislature into an extension of the presidency. “The National Assembly should be the bedrock of checks and balances, not an obedient arm of the executive,” Bakare said. “What we are seeing is a disturbing erosion of the separation of powers that is foundational to our democracy.”
Bakare highlighted the increasing frequency of attacks by insurgents, bandits, and kidnappers, calling for urgent reform in the nation’s security apparatus. “The people are no longer safe in their homes, in their communities, or on the roads. We cannot continue to ignore the widespread fear that has gripped the entire nation. It is time for the president to take concrete steps to restore security and order,” he said.
Bakare concluded his sermon with a call for unity and reform. “Nigerians must stand together to demand the kind of leadership that is not only competent but also compassionate and accountable. The future of Nigeria depends on it.”
