The Methodist Church of Nigeria has expressed commendation for the initiative by President Bola Tinubu’s Federal Government to consider the establishment of state police as a measure to address the escalating insecurity in the country.
The commendation was conveyed in a communiqué released at the end of a three-day Apex Leadership and Prayer Retreat for the Dioceses in the Northern Region held at the Norcross Memorial Cathedral in Otukpo, Benue State.
The church, led by the Prelate Dr Oliver Ali Aba, urged President Tinubu, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, and relevant agencies to intervene in the recent attacks on the people of Agatu, Otukpo, and Apa Local Government in Benue State by Fulani herdsmen.
The church also emphasized the need for the government to ensure the proper equipment and funding of the state police once they are established.
The communiqué called on governments at all levels to address challenges and work towards improving the living conditions of the masses.
It condemned unprovoked attacks and killings of innocent citizens in several communities in Benue State, urging the government and security agencies to take decisive actions to bring the situation under control.
In addition, the retreat encouraged the Christian faithful to intensify prayers for divine intervention in the nation’s affairs, particularly regarding insecurity and economic hardships.
The church emphasized the importance of utilizing the proceeds of fuel subsidies to create jobs and implement measures to alleviate the suffering of the masses.
The retreat also highlighted the significance of maintaining tight borders to curb the influx of criminal elements from neighbouring countries that could pose security threats.
“Government should ensure that our borders are tight, so as to check its porousness to stop the influx of criminal elements from our neighbouring countries who may pose security threats to the nation,” the communique stated.
The Methodist Church of Nigeria reiterated its commitment to supporting the government’s efforts and called for comprehensive and effective measures to address the nation’s complex challenges.
