The Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Uyo, has once again called on both federal and state governments to reassess their security and intelligence approaches, urging the adoption of community policing as a means to combat the rising tide of terrorism and violent crimes plaguing the country.
In a communiqué issued at the close of its 30th Synod, held from April 24 to 27, 2025, at Immanuel Methodist Cathedral in Itiam Etoi, Uyo LGA, Akwa Ibom State, the Diocese expressed concern about the government’s “unperturbed disposition,” which suggests a sense of helplessness in the face of escalating terrorist and kidnapping attacks, even in the nation’s capital and major highways.
The communiqué, which was signed by Archbishop Most Rev. John E. Koko-Bassey, Lay President Sir Sunday A. Bassey (KJW), and Public Relations Officer Abasifreke Idiong, PhD, included the following statement, “Synod appreciated the 2025 Conference Theme, ‘They Will Rise Again’ (John 11:23b), and noted that it is apt and timely, especially now that Nigerians are grappling with an unstable economy, widespread hardship, endemic corruption, insecurity, crumbling institutions, and many challenges facing the Church.”
The Synod also criticized the current state of the economy, attributing its decline to certain government policies that have exacerbated the suffering of ordinary Nigerians.
It called for the implementation of effective economic reforms to strengthen the naira, reduce fuel and food costs, and establish a realistic living wage for workers.
Reaffirming its stance on the nation’s security crisis, the Synod declared: “Governments must realign their security approach to include effective community policing.
Terrorists and kidnappers cannot be allowed to operate unchecked while the government appears indifferent.”
The Diocese expressed deep sorrow over the killings in Benue and Plateau states and urged both Church and national leaders to follow Christ’s example, offering hope and practical solutions to lift citizens out of poverty and despair.
The Synod also called for Christian unity in the rebuilding of both the Church and the nation and emphasized the importance of prayers for a peaceful, united, and tolerant Nigeria.
The Synod extended condolences to the Roman Catholic Church over the passing of the 266th Pope, His Holiness Pope Francis, and other esteemed Church leaders.
It prayed for divine guidance in selecting a new Pope and for the rise of Christian leaders committed to serving both God and humanity.
On political matters, the Synod condemned recent political maneuverings and urged politicians to embrace liberal democratic values, emphasizing that a vibrant multiparty system is crucial for ensuring freedom and participatory governance.
Finally, the Synod commended Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno for his generosity towards the Diocese, particularly his financial contributions to the ongoing cathedral project, and encouraged him to continue his developmental initiatives across the state.
