Nigerian Pastor Urges Congregants to ‘Fortify’ Against Rising Bandit Attacks

A viral video circulating on TikTok shows Pastor Oloruntimilehin Daramola advising his followers to “get fortified” amid escalating attacks across Nigeria. The footage, posted on Monday on an account named @kingbosoro, depicts the cleric in a purple robe and cap, wearing a cross pendant.

As of press time, the authenticity of the account, the date of the sermon, and confirmation of the pastor’s identity could not be independently verified.

Pastor Daramola, who identifies himself as the Founder of The Omnipotence Mission of God, urged Nigerians to adopt defensive measures to protect themselves from armed criminals. He also endorsed the legal carrying of firearms for personal protection.

At one point, the pastor referenced Nigeria’s amalgamation, suggesting that regional separation could be a peaceful option if the current national structure became untenable. He then emphasized proactive measures to intercept attackers before they reach homes or places of worship.

“Go and do something that can protect you,” he said, warning that congregants who failed to follow his instructions would no longer be welcome in his church. He recommended unconventional deterrents, including using bees or charms to repel intruders.

The cleric argued that his own safety would be meaningless if his congregation remained vulnerable, citing past attacks on worship centres, including the June 2022 massacre at St Francis Catholic Church in Owo, Ondo State, and the November 2025 shooting at Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku. He invited individuals seeking personal guidance to meet him privately for what he described as “the right steps to take.”

The video has provoked mixed reactions online, with many questioning its authenticity and the validity of the pastor’s claims.

The remarks arrive amid a backdrop of recurring violence against communities and places of worship across Nigeria. Incidents such as the abduction of pupils and teachers from St Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State, have intensified calls for improved security measures and intelligence gathering.