Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Bishop of the Diocese of Kwara, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Rt. Rev. Sunday Adewole, has called on the Federal Government, to take firm and immediate steps to tackle rising insecurity and worsening economic hardship across the country.
Speaking at the 18th Synod of the Church held at Christ the King Anglican Church, Geri-Alimi, Ilorin, Adewole expressed deep concern over the growing wave of violence in Kwara State and other parts of Nigeria, warning that failure to act decisively could further erode public trust and endanger more lives.
He described the reported killing of 162 persons in Woro and Nuku communities of Kaiama Local Government Area, as a grim reflection of the nation’s fragile security situation.
According to him, many of the victims were allegedly targeted for rejecting extremist ideologies, a development he said threatens peaceful coexistence.
“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,” Adewole stated.
The cleric also condemned attacks on religious centres, citing the November 2025 incident in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara, where worshippers were killed and abducted.
He noted that persistent kidnappings across the state have disrupted livelihoods, forced school closures and imposed heavy financial burdens on families paying ransoms.
Beyond insecurity, Adewole tasked the Federal Government with addressing economic challenges through policies that will stabilise the naira, curb inflation and create jobs for Nigeria’s growing youth population.
“Corruption, which continues to undermine national development, must be addressed with genuine commitment, transparency and accountability at all levels of governance,” he added.
He stressed the need for people-oriented policies, insisting that government interventions must reach vulnerable Nigerians.
He also called for stronger institutions, respect for the rule of law and credible elections as key to restoring citizens’ confidence.
The bishop cautioned against divisive tendencies, urging leaders to promote unity, tolerance and national cohesion.
“Every Nigerian life is sacred and must be protected irrespective of tribe, religion or region,” he said.
While acknowledging efforts of the Kwara State Government in sectors such as infrastructure, education and agriculture, Adewole noted that rural development, healthcare, youth employment and access to basic amenities still require urgent attention.
He further urged Christians to actively participate in politics by supporting credible and competent leaders, stressing that governance should be judged by its impact on grassroots communities.
Also speaking, the Kwara State Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Apostle Shina Ibiyemi, encouraged Christians to remain steadfast and contribute meaningfully to national development despite prevailing challenges.
“This is the time for us to rise and play our roles. We cannot continue to sit back and only watch events unfold. Our voices and actions matter in building a better nation,” Ibiyemi said.
He called for unity among Christians and emphasised the need for active civic engagement, adherence to justice and respect for the rule of law.
“The Church must not lose sight of its mission. Even in these challenging times, we must trust God and continue to work for growth, stability and progress in our nation,” he added.
The synod, held from April 17 to 19, 2026, brought together clergy and laity across the diocese to deliberate on spiritual growth and the role of the Church in national development.
In his remarks, Reverend Timothy Akangbe, Senior Special Assistant on Religious Matters (Christian Affairs), urged Nigerians to continue praying for the country and Kwara State.
