Religious and Political Leaders Unite Against Rising Insecurity
The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has issued a strong appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to demonstrate decisive leadership in response to the escalating security crisis across the country. This call comes in the wake of recent brutal attacks on worshippers at Christ Apostolic Church (C.A.C), Oke-Isegun in Eruku town, Kwara State, and the increasing abduction of students from educational institutions by terrorist groups.
In a statement released through its Media Bureau on Friday, the PFN demanded that the Federal Government take immediate and decisive action to bring the perpetrators of these evil acts to justice and stop the unnecessary loss of human lives.
PFN Condemns Escalating Violence Against Christians
Bishop Francis Wale Oke, the National President of PFN, characterized the Eruku church attack as not merely a violation of human life but a clear manifestation of the growing genocide against Christians in Nigeria. He emphasized that this tragic incident represents a direct challenge to the credibility and determination of President Tinubu's administration.
"This is a calculated attempt to destabilize the peace and unity of our nation," Bishop Oke stated. "We urge President Tinubu to rise to the occasion and demonstrate unwavering leadership in confronting these security challenges."
The Christian body expressed its condolences to President Tinubu, the worldwide CAC community, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and the residents of Eruku and Kwara State. PFN acknowledged the heavy hearts within the Christian community and offered prayers for those affected by what they described as senseless violence.
APC Elders Join Condemnation of Security Failures
Adding to the growing chorus of concern, Chief James Ayeni, Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Elders' Forum in Kwara South Senatorial District, strongly condemned the killings and abductions at CAC Eruku. He described the bandit attacks as disheartening, barbaric, and completely unacceptable.
Ayeni provided a sobering account of the security deterioration in the region, recalling multiple tragic incidents that have plagued Kwara communities. He mentioned the attacks on Oke-Ode, Babanla, and Oreke areas of Ifelodun Local Council where approximately 15 vigilantes, 12 Forest Guards, and a traditional ruler lost their lives.
The APC elder also highlighted a particularly disturbing pattern of violence in the Koro axis of Ekiti Local Council, where about two years ago, "the women leader of APC in the ward was abducted and subsequently killed by bandits." He added the gruesome murder of the Kabiyesi of Koro, Oba Olusegun Aremu, while his wife (Olori) was kidnapped.
"In another dimension," Ayeni revealed, "not less than 50 people have been attacked by bandits along Osi/Obbo-Ayegunle road in the last two years."
Security Deployment and Continued Concerns
Despite the grim situation, Ayeni commended both President Tinubu and Governor Abdulrasaq for deploying substantial security personnel to the Eruku axis. He expressed confidence that "this positive step will go a long way to strengthen security and check the menace of the subversive elements on the route."
Meanwhile, Dr. Ile Joseph, a prominent chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), added his voice to the growing demands for action. He called on President Tinubu to fulfill his constitutional responsibility of securing the lives and properties of all Nigerians.
Joseph expressed deep concern about what he termed the "escalating wave of terrorist attacks and targeted killings in the Northern region," emphasizing the need for an urgent and decisive response to the security menace.
The PFN leadership concluded by assuring Nigerians of their commitment to promoting peace, justice, and the sanctity of life. Bishop Oke stated, "We are praying and we will continue to pray for divine guidance for our President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and our leaders, that God may grant them the wisdom and courage to take the necessary steps to restore security and protect the lives of all citizens."
