From Jude Chinedu, Enugu
The Anglican Diocese of Enugu has raised the alarm over the deteriorating security situation across several states in the country, particularly in Benue, Imo and Plateau.
This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the second session of the 19th Synod of the Diocese, at St. Paul’s Church, China Town, Enugu, from Thursday, June 26 to Sunday, June 29.
The communique was jointly signed by Rev. Canon Ifeanyi Agu, Synod Secretary; Paulson C. Egbo, Registrar; Prof. Offornze Amucheazi, Chancellor and Rt. Rev’d Samuel O. Ike, Bishop, Diocese of Enugu.
The session, which was presided over by Bishop Ike, had as its theme, ‘Living by every word of God,’ (Matthew 4:4).
In the communique, the Synod condemned what it described as the increasing spate of violence and killings across the country. “The Synod expresses displeasure over resurgence of violence and killings in the country, especially in Benue, Enugu, Plateau and Imo states, among others, even with enormous resources committed to the fight against insecurity and urges President Bola Tinubu to invoke his constitutional powers to protect the country.”
It also kicked against alleged corruption in the nation’s security architecture. “The Synod frowns at reports of alleged complicity and collusion of security and intelligence chiefs with bandits and terrorists in the fight against insecurity and siphoning of funds voted for security and urges the President to investigate and prosecute, where necessary, those indicted.”
The Church urged the National Assembly to support state and community policing to boost local security. “The Synod calls on the National Assembly to facilitate the creation of state and community police to improve security and prevent wanton destruction of lives and properties and improve the ranking of Nigeria in the Global Terrorism Index.”
It also decried the rising rate of youth unemployment and urged immediate action. “The Synod notes the challenge of youth restiveness and the need to urgently take steps to stem the tide by prioritising the needs of the youths and making efforts to reduce the number of unemployed youths by ensuring that their voices are heard.”
To support internal security, the Diocese said it had taken proactive measures. “It is in this light that the Diocese approved the establishment of the Diocese of Enugu Security Network and the Diocese of Enugu Security Council, to help in safeguarding the lives and properties of Anglican faithful and other citizens within its territorial jurisdiction.”
On the economy, the Synod raised concern over the Federal Government’s borrowing trend. “The Synod is also worried that with a record borrowing of about N10.1 trillion between May 2023 and September 2024, the economy is yet to stabilise and urges efforts to stimulate the economy.”
It advised President Tinubu to focus on infrastructure and basic welfare packages. “The President should also ensure that existing highways are rehabilitated and also urgently provide safety nets like subsidies on health, education and food to cushion the effect of hardship on the populace.”
On the home front, the Synod commended Governor Peter Mbah’s development drive but raised issues about tax policies. “The Synod commends His Excellency, the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, for the ambitious efforts of his administration in enhancing infrastructure, security, health and education among others.
“The Synod, however, calls on the state government to review the multiple taxes that are making lives unbearable for residents of the state.”