Stop bloodshed, kidnappings now, Bishops tell FG

*Demand urgent action on insecurity, hunger, hardship

*Say Nigeria sliding into deeper crisis

Bishops of  the Kwara Diocese, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), have called on the Federal Government to urgently halt the rising wave of bloodshed, kidnappings and economic hardship across the country, warning that Nigeria is sliding into a deeper crisis.

The call was made by the Bishop of the Diocese, Rt. Rev. Sunday Timothy Adewole, during the 1st Session of the 18th Synod held at Christ the King Anglican Church, Geri-Alimi, Ilorin.

Adewole decried the worsening insecurity in both southern and northern parts of Kwara State and across the country, stressing that government must rise to its constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property.

He described the killing of 162 persons in Woro and Nuku communities in Kaiama Local Government Area as a tragic reminder of the nation’s fragile security situation, noting that many of the victims were reportedly targeted for rejecting extremist ideologies.

“We urge the Federal Government to rise to its God-given responsibility of safeguarding lives, upholding justice and promoting the common good of all citizens without discrimination,” he said.

The Bishop also condemned attacks on places of worship, recalling the November 2025 incident in Eruku where worshippers were killed and abducted, and expressed concern over the increasing wave of kidnappings affecting residents, traditional rulers and workers across the state.According to him, the persistent insecurity has forced school closures in some communities, disrupted livelihoods and placed heavy financial burdens on families forced to pay ransoms.

On the economy, Adewole urged the Federal Government to address instability by implementing policies that would stabilise the naira, reduce inflation and create sustainable jobs for Nigeria’s growing youth population.

He further stressed that corruption must be tackled with sincerity, transparency and accountability at all levels of governance.

The cleric called for people-focused policies, urging authorities to ensure that relief programmes reach the most vulnerable Nigerians.

While also advocating stronger institutions, adherence to the rule of law and credible electoral processes to rebuild public confidence.

He warned against divisive tendencies, urging leaders to promote unity, religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence across ethnic and regional lines.“Every Nigerian life is sacred and must be protected irrespective of tribe, religion or region,” he stated.

While acknowledging ongoing efforts by the Kwara State Government in infrastructure, education, agriculture and social welfare, the Bishop noted that significant gaps still exist in rural development, healthcare delivery, youth employment and access to basic amenities.

He maintained that governance should be measured by its impact on grassroots communities, not just visible projects in urban centres.

Adewole also urged Christians to participate actively in politics and called for a change in attitude among Nigerians to build a more virile society.

He concluded by urging leaders at all levels to govern with humility, integrity and the fear of God, describing leadership as a sacred trust that must prioritise the welfare and dignity of the people.

Culled from Vanguard