Methodist Church demands urgent action on insecurity, hardship, corruption, backs state police

The Methodist Church Nigeria has issued a strong call for the Federal Government to implement more decisive measures to combat escalating insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, and corruption. The church expressed concern that despite increased government revenues and allocations, ordinary Nigerians have not seen meaningful improvements in their welfare.

“

The Lord shall fight for you.

In its communiqué, released at the end of the 50th/15th Biennial Conference, the church also voiced its support for the establishment of state police forces. It described state police as a crucial component of security reform, capable of enhancing local intelligence gathering and enabling quicker responses to emerging security threats across the nation.

“

The Conference declared that “despite Nigeria’s present challenges, God’s promise remains sure,” adding, “‘The Lord shall fight for you.’”

His Eminence, Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria, read the communiqué during a press conference in Ibadan. He stated that the conference had prayerfully considered the nation's condition and reaffirmed its belief that Nigeria can overcome its difficulties through faith, righteousness, justice, and collective action. The church urged Nigerians not to succumb to fear or despair but to remain steadfast in their faith and work together for national progress.

“

It therefore called on Nigerians “not to surrender to fear or despair, but to remain steadfast in faith, uphold righteousness, pursue justice, and work together for the peace and progress of the nation.”

The church acknowledged the government's reform efforts in some economic sectors but voiced deep concern over the worsening conditions faced by millions. It identified corruption, impunity, and mismanagement of public resources as significant obstacles to development, emphasizing the need for stronger accountability and leadership focused on citizen welfare. The conference noted that constituency project funds have often failed to yield visible grassroots development, demanding transparent and people-centered leadership that actively combats corruption, safeguards resources, and ensures economic benefits reach ordinary Nigerians.

“

deep concern over the worsening economic hardship, hunger, insecurity, unemployment, and declining living standards confronting millions of Nigerians.