By Enitan Abdultawab
Gospel singer Yinka Alaseyori has come under criticism on social media after suggesting that prayers are key to securing the release of students and teachers abducted in Oyo State.
The singer sparked controversy in a viral video where she defended President Bola Tinubu and security agencies amid growing concerns over insecurity in the country.
According to Alaseyori, Nigerians should not allow themselves to be used for political purposes, insisting that the president, vice president and security personnel are doing their best to rescue the victims.
“You cannot say that the president and vice president are not doing what they are supposed to do. They are working,” she said.
“We all need prayers, from the president to the last person. Those children there are our children, my children. Even security personnel could have proceeded to save the children but could have been prevented by a spiritual darkness. So, that is where prayers come into play.”
Her remarks quickly triggered backlash online, with many Nigerians arguing that insecurity requires decisive government action rather than religious appeals.
A user identified as @chidozic40637 criticised the comment, saying, “For how long are we going to continue to pray instead of taking full responsibility for what is happening in our society?”
Another user, @OmoniyiShola5, acknowledged the importance of faith but argued that Nigeria’s security crisis is largely man-made.
“Prayer works but there are some things we don’t have to disturb God for. What is happening in Nigeria right now is man made and a sensible government that is transparent should be able to solve it,” the user wrote.
Similarly, @ChidiUkaonu questioned the level of effort being made by authorities, noting that Nigerians want tangible results rather than assurances.
“What do you call prayer without work? How much of work has been done? Nigerians want to see results,” the comment read.
Echoing similar sentiments, @Fashrules argued that countries that introduced Christianity and Islam to Africa tackle security challenges through swift action instead of relying solely on prayers.
“The people that exported the Abrahamic faiths to us don’t do reach us. They face their security challenges head-on by acting swiftly and ruthlessly within their capacities,” the user said.
Another commenter, @til_theng, lamented what they described as an excessive dependence on prayer in Nigeria, saying citizens are often encouraged to pray over issues that require practical solutions.
However, some social media users defended Alaseyori’s position. @Sanni4islam maintained that prayer remains effective and suggested critics might change their views if faced with a similar situation involving a loved one.
Others accused the singer of overlooking the government’s responsibility to protect citizens. “Prayer can’t do the primary duty of our government,” @SmithRyan321932 wrote.
The criticism comes as outrage continues over the abduction of 46 students and staff members from Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State since May 15, 2026.
One of the kidnapped teachers, Michael Oyedokun, has reportedly been killed by the abductors.
