The Bishop of the Missionary Diocese of Oyo South, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), The Rt. Rev'd Olufemi Familoni, has called on the Federal Government to demonstrate strong political will and take decisive action to rescue the abducted school children and teachers from Oriire Local Council Area in Oyo State. The victims were kidnapped from three schools on May 15, 2026.
Bishop's Appeal During Ordination Service
Speaking at an ordination service for Deacons, Canons, Archdeacons, and the Sub-dean of the Diocese last Sunday, Bishop Familoni expressed deep concern over the prolonged captivity of the victims. He stated, "We are eagerly waiting and praying that our children and teachers will be rescued from the bush. The situation is becoming so disturbing. But we are also urging the government not to relent in their efforts."
Call for Equipping Local Vigilance Groups
Bishop Familoni also urged the government to equip local vigilance groups with sophisticated weapons to address the prevailing insecurity in the country. He emphasized that these groups have proven more effective in combating banditry and kidnapping, citing the Amotekun security outfit as an example. According to him, reports show that Amotekun has helped curb many cases of banditry.
The Bishop noted that the rising number of killings in Nigeria is becoming unbearable, stressing that the nation cannot continue in this manner. He observed that the military is overwhelmed, making it necessary to encourage local groups to support the fight against insurgents.
Commendation and Warning
While commending the police and armed forces for their recent efforts, Bishop Familoni described their bravery as laudable but called for more support. He said, "I think more can still be done to encourage the police and other security agencies to be more involved in curbing insecurity. Recently, they have shown some bravery and proved effective. I urge the government to give them more support."
Expressing optimism that the government is working behind the scenes to secure the release of the kidnapped individuals, the Bishop warned against politicizing security issues. "Human lives are too precious to be reduced to politics. The security forces should be empowered and given all the support they need to combat this menace," he added.
Ordination of New Clergy
Earlier in the service, the Bishop Missioner of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), The Rt. Rev'd Akorede Okuyelu, urged the newly ordained deacons, canons, archdeacons, and the Sub-dean to embrace the challenges of ministry work. He reminded them that ministry involves persecution, and only those genuinely called by God can overcome the odds.
Bishop Okuyelu admitted that he once thought pastoral work was for lazy people but has since realized that only diligent and committed individuals can succeed in ministry. He charged the clergy to remain at their duty posts and preach the whole counsel of God. "Do the work of an evangelist. Preach the whole truth of the word of God. Keep your vision alive and be focused. God will reward those He called. He is a rewarder of those who diligently serve Him," he said.
New Appointments and Ordinations
During the event, Ven. Ebenezer Babatunde Ayeni was presented as the Sub-dean of the Cathedral, while Ven. Daniel Adedayo Fakogbe was installed as Archdeacon. Those instituted and installed as statutory canons include Rev. Canon Olusegun Akintayo Ojelakin, Rev. Canon Samuel Sunday Obafemi, and Rev. Canon Michael Adeyinka Adewoyin. The newly ordained deacons are Israel Tosin Obanla, John Idowu Okewale, Abiodun Owolabi Olarinre, Alaba Olusegun Akinlabi, and Philip Oluwatoyin Fadeyi.
