The Anglican Bishop of the Missionary Diocese of Oyo South, Olufemi Familoni, has called on the government to provide greater support for local vigilante groups as part of efforts to tackle the growing insecurity across Nigeria.
The cleric made the appeal on Sunday following an ordination service for deacons, canons, archdeacons, and the installation of a sub-dean within the diocese.
Concern Over Rising Insecurity
Bishop Familoni expressed concern over the increasing cases of banditry, kidnapping, and violent attacks across different parts of the country.
According to him, the continued loss of lives has become alarming and requires urgent action from government and security authorities.
He noted that many communities have continued to face threats from criminal elements operating in forests and remote areas, making it necessary to strengthen local security structures.
Call for Better Equipped Vigilantes
The bishop advocated for local vigilance groups to receive better training and equipment to enhance their effectiveness in supporting conventional security agencies.
He specifically pointed to the success recorded by the Amotekun Corps, which he said has helped reduce incidents of banditry and other crimes in several communities.
According to him, empowering local security outfits with adequate resources would improve efforts to combat criminal activities in rural and hard-to-reach locations.
He argued that community-based security groups often possess valuable local knowledge that can aid intelligence gathering and security operations.
Support for Security Agencies
While calling for greater involvement of vigilante groups, the bishop also commended the efforts of the police and the Nigerian Armed Forces.
He acknowledged what he described as recent improvements in security operations and praised officers for demonstrating courage in confronting criminal elements.
However, he stressed that more support is needed from government to enable security agencies perform their duties more effectively.
According to him, sustained investment in personnel, equipment, and operational capacity remains essential for addressing Nigeria’s security challenges.
Concern for Kidnapped Students and Teachers
Bishop Familoni also expressed concern over the plight of students and teachers reportedly abducted in Oyo State.
He said many Nigerians are anxiously awaiting their safe return and urged authorities not to relent in efforts aimed at securing their release.
The cleric emphasized the importance of demonstrating strong political will in confronting insecurity and ensuring the protection of citizens.
He further urged Nigerians to continue praying for the victims and their families during the difficult period.
Warning Against Politicising Security Issues
The bishop cautioned political leaders and citizens against turning security matters into partisan debates.
According to him, issues involving human lives should not be reduced to political arguments or used as tools for political advantage.
He maintained that all stakeholders should focus on finding practical solutions to the country’s security problems rather than assigning blame.
The cleric called for a united national effort involving government, security agencies, community leaders, and citizens to address the menace of insecurity.
Clergy Urged to Remain Committed
Earlier during the service, the Bishop Missioner of the Church of Nigeria, Akorede Okuyelu, encouraged newly ordained clergy to remain committed to their calling despite challenges.
He reminded them that ministry often comes with sacrifices and opposition but urged them to remain steadfast in preaching the gospel and serving faithfully.
Okuyelu also advised the newly ordained ministers to stay focused, uphold biblical teachings, and carry out their responsibilities with diligence and integrity.
The event featured the presentation of Ebenezer Ayeni as Sub-Dean of the Cathedral, while Dr. Daniel Fakogbe was collated as Archdeacon. Several canons were also installed, and new deacons were ordained as part of the church’s ongoing ministerial development.