Popular Nigerian pastor, Emmanuel Iren, has stirred controversy after claiming that Nigeria has one of the best security infrastructures in the world. The statement, which many have described as bogus and out of touch with reality, was made during one of his recent sermons.

According to the clergyman, Nigeria’s security system functions effectively when people with wealth and influence are involved. He explained that those with money often get swift responses from security operatives, while the poor continue to suffer from neglect and delayed justice.

In his words:

“I think, in my personal opinion, our security infrastructure is actually one of the best in the world. Be a rich person in trouble. Drop money and see — they will bring the thief for you. Maybe the problem is that where the wickedness is happening, the voices there are poor. Maybe it doesn’t matter much to us as much as we pretend.”

Pastor Iren went on to suggest that Nigeria’s insecurity problem is tied to the uneven distribution of justice, where the concerns of the poor are often ignored while the wealthy enjoy protection and quick results.

His comments have since drawn mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians questioning his claim and highlighting the daily security challenges citizens face — from kidnappings to bandit attacks and police inefficiency.

The remarks also come at a time when global attention is once again focused on Nigeria’s security record, especially after the U.S. listed the country as a “Country of Particular Concern” due to ongoing religious persecution and violence.