Enugu Anglican Synod Criticizes FG Over Eastern Rail Delay, Urges Fair Elections

The Anglican Church's Enugu Diocese has voiced strong criticism against the Nigerian Federal Government for the protracted delay in completing the Eastern Rail Line, a crucial Port Harcourt–Maiduguri project. Rising from its 3rd session of the 19th Synod, the Church described the ongoing neglect as detrimental to the South-East's economy and the welfare of its citizens.

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The Synod frowns at the delay in completing the Eastern Rail Line (Port Harcourt–Maiduguri) project, which has remained a pipe dream, and calls on the Federal Government to expedite action to alleviate the suffering of the people.

In a communiqué, the Synod lamented that the rail line, intended to boost economic activities, improve transportation, and foster regional integration, has remained a "pipe dream" despite numerous government promises. "The Synod frowns at the delay in completing the Eastern Rail Line (Port Harcourt–Maiduguri) project, which has remained a pipe dream, and calls on the Federal Government to expedite action to alleviate the suffering of the people," the statement read.

The Church also turned its attention to the political climate, expressing concern over the "overheating of the polity" by politicians ahead of the 2026 elections. It issued a call to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to guarantee a level playing field for all parties and candidates to uphold the credibility of the polls. "The Synod expresses displeasure at the overheating of the polity by politicians and urges political parties to play according to the rules. It also calls on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a level playing field for all political parties and their candidates," the communiqué stated.

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The Synod expresses displeasure at the overheating of the polity by politicians and urges political parties to play according to the rules. It also calls on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a level playing field for all political parties and their candidates.

Furthermore, the Synod encouraged eligible Nigerians to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participate actively in the elections, emphasizing that citizen engagement is vital for deepening democracy and ensuring accountable leadership. The diocese also declared a strict zero-tolerance stance against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), warning that any clergy or laity found guilty of abuse would face severe ecclesiastical sanctions, including suspension, defrocking, and potential prosecution by civil authorities.

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The Anglican Diocese of Enugu declares zero tolerance for Gender-Based Violence. Any leader or person, whether clergy or laity, found liable to GBV shall face immediate canonical discipline, including counselling, suspension or defrocking, and referral to civil authorities where appropriate.