“Bandit Now Do Give Money Giveaway On Social Media” – Popular Nigerian Cleric Raises Alarm

Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Dr. Paul Enenche, has expressed concern over what he described as a growing culture of trivialising serious national issues, particularly insecurity, among some Nigerians.

The cleric made the remarks during the church’s midweek service in Abuja on Wednesday while leading prayers for peace, security and national stability.

Reaction to Viral Social Media Incident

Enenche’s comments followed reports that some social media users recently flocked to an account allegedly linked to a suspected bandit, requesting financial assistance and posting their bank account details in hopes of receiving cash gifts.

The incident generated widespread reactions online after a young man claimed in a viral video that he had been promised ₦100,000 by the suspected criminal but was later threatened with a demand for ₦100 million.

Reacting to the development, the pastor questioned the willingness of some individuals to seek money from persons allegedly connected to violent crimes and criminal activities.

“I heard that there are people now canvassing for bandits to send them money, and you collect blood money, knowing that this money is from someone’s blood?” he said.

‘Security Issues Should Not Be Treated as a Joke’

The clergyman lamented what he sees as an increasing tendency to turn critical national concerns into sources of amusement rather than treating them with the seriousness they deserve.

According to him, insecurity, violence and criminality have affected countless families and communities across the country, making it inappropriate to celebrate or glorify individuals allegedly involved in such acts.

He argued that when citizens begin to treat grave issues as entertainment, it diminishes public sensitivity to the suffering of victims and weakens collective efforts to address the problems.

Warning on Accountability and Governance

Enenche also linked the culture of making light of national issues to broader concerns about governance and accountability.

He suggested that a society that constantly turns major events into jokes may inadvertently create an environment where institutions and public officials feel less pressure to act responsibly.

“I believe that the country’s leadership knows that whatever happens, everything will be turned into a joke,” he said.

The pastor further expressed concern that actions capable of undermining democratic institutions or public trust often fail to attract sustained public scrutiny.

“If the electoral commission declares anything it decides, no consequence; if the judiciary miscarries justice, nothing happens,” he added.

Call for National Reflection

Enenche urged Nigerians to approach issues affecting national security and development with greater seriousness and responsibility.

He emphasized the need for citizens to reject the glorification of criminality, support efforts aimed at promoting peace and security, and hold institutions accountable through lawful and constructive means.

The pastor’s remarks have since sparked conversations among worshippers and social media users, with many debating the role of public attitudes in addressing insecurity and strengthening national values.