Rescue abducted Kwara residents, Anglican diocese tells FG

The Diocese of Jebba, The Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), has urged the Federal Government and the Kwara State Government to intensify security operations and secure the release of residents abducted from communities across the state.

The call was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the first session of the diocesan synod, held at the Cathedral Church of St Peter, Jebba, Kwara State, from August 1 to 2, 2026.

The synod was presided over by the Diocesan Bishop and President of Synod, the Rt Rev Dr Oluwaseun Adeyinka Aderogba, who expressed concern over the persistent insecurity in parts of the state.

 In the communique signed and made available to The PidomNigeria, the synod urged governments at all levels to strengthen intelligence gathering, improve collaboration among security agencies and take decisive steps to safeguard lives and property.

It also called for the immediate rescue of victims abducted from Woro Community in Kaiama Local Government Area, Ikerin-Opin in Ekiti Local Government Area, Lata Nna in Patigi Local Government Area and other residents still being held captive.

“The Synod urges governments at all levels to intensify security operations, strengthen intelligence gathering, improve collaboration among security agencies and ensure the immediate rescue of all kidnapped victims,” the communiqué stated.

The Synod commended Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for ongoing infrastructure projects and other development initiatives across the state.

It also commended him for facilitating the establishment of a military barracks in Omu-Aran to strengthen security across the state.

It, therefore, appealed to the governor to ensure the equitable distribution of development projects, particularly in Kwara North Senatorial District.

The church specifically called for the reconstruction of the Share-Patigi Road and the speedy execution of the Jebba-Bacita-Shonga Road project.

On national issues, the synod praised President Bola Tinubu for supporting the establishment of state police, describing the initiative as a step that could strengthen community policing and enhance Nigeria’s security architecture.

It also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission, security agencies and other stakeholders to ensure free, fair, peaceful, transparent and credible elections, particularly ahead of the Osun State governorship election.

The synod expressed concern over legislative proposals seeking to restrict public preaching, including street and bus evangelism.

It warned that such measures, if enacted, would undermine the constitutional rights to freedom of worship, religious expression and the peaceful propagation of the Christian faith.

The synod also urged political office seekers to conduct issue-based campaigns and avoid inflammatory statements, personal attacks, misinformation and actions capable of creating political tension.

It further called on Christians to remain committed to biblical values by demonstrating integrity, righteousness, justice and peace in both their private and public lives.

“Christians should continue to demonstrate exemplary character, uphold biblical values, promote justice and peace, support lawful authority, and faithfully proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ in every sphere of society,” the communiqué added.

The synod concluded with a thanksgiving service and the celebration of Holy Communion, presided over by Aderogba.

The sermon was delivered by the Rt Rev Joseph Osifunwa, while the Lord Bishop of Igbomina, the Rt Rev Emmanuel Adekola, was also in attendance.