The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3rd Division of the Nigerian Army, Jos, and Commander of the Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), Major General E.F. Oyinlola, has given his assurance of full protection to Reverend Ezekiel Dachomo, following reports that the clergyman’s life was under threat for his vocal stance against the killings of Christians in Northern Nigeria.
In a video shared by Voice TV, Major General Oyinlola was seen addressing Rev. Dachomo directly during a visit to his church in Jos, Plateau State. The visit, according to reports, came amid rising concerns that some armed groups had allegedly marked the pastor for assassination due to his strong condemnation of religiously motivated attacks and government inaction.
During the emotional encounter, General Oyinlola commended the pastor for his bravery in speaking truth to power despite mounting intimidation.
“Pastor, I heard you say that you are ready to die, put your life. I want to assure you that nobody can kill you until God says it’s time for you to come home,” the GOC said, drawing applause from the congregation.
The Army chief went further to affirm that the Nigerian military under his command would ensure the pastor’s safety and protect all law-abiding citizens from criminal elements. “We are here to let you know that the Nigerian Army stands with every citizen who desires peace and justice. We will continue to protect you and others who are under threat,” he added.
Major General Oyinlola’s assurance follows weeks of growing anxiety among Christian communities in Plateau State, where violent attacks have left scores dead and displaced thousands. Rev. Dachomo, who leads one of the largest evangelical congregations in the region, has been outspoken about what he calls the “systematic persecution of Christians” in the North and has frequently urged both local and international bodies to intervene.
In several viral sermons, the pastor had declared that he was prepared to sacrifice his life for truth and justice if that was what it took to end the killings. His statements, though widely praised for courage, also sparked fears among his followers that he could become a target for extremist groups.
General Oyinlola’s visit appeared to have been both a gesture of solidarity and a public reassurance of the army’s commitment to religious freedom and community safety. The GOC also used the opportunity to urge religious leaders to remain calm, cooperate with security forces, and continue promoting peace across the state.
 3rd Division of the Nigerian Army, Jos, and Commander of the Joint Task Force...){kind=link}