Christian leaders in Ondo State have called on political actors and government authorities to stop politicising insecurity in the country, warning that the lives of citizens must not be reduced to political talking points while fear and violence continue to spread across communities.
The call was made during the turning of the sod ceremony for the Ondo State Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Ecumenical and Secretariat Building held at Ibule Soro in Ifedore Local Government Area of the state, where top clerics gathered to emphasise unity and a stronger collective response to national challenges.
Speaking at the event, the founder and general overseer of Agape Christian Ministries, Bishop Felix Adejumo, said leaders at all levels must stop denial and political excuses, and confront insecurity with urgency and responsibility.
He warned that continued bloodshed across the country demanded accountability from those in authority, insisting that Nigerians deserve protection rather than political narratives.
“Our leaders, politicians, should not play politics with the security of lives and property in Nigeria. They should not pretend that they do not know what is going on or turn the other side of their eyes and pretend as if they don’t know,” Adejumo said.
He added that the worsening killings in parts of the country could no longer be ignored, stressing that leaders must take decisive steps to end what he described as a growing cycle of violence.
“The blood that they shed in this nation is crying daily and they need to look at that and bring an end to this carnage that we are seeing,” he said.
Also speaking, the Catholic Bishop of Ondo State, Bishop Jude Arogundade, expressed concern over rising insecurity, saying many Nigerians now live in fear and uncertainty.
He, however, urged citizens not to panic, noting that security agencies including the police, DSS and local security outfits were actively responding to threats and working to maintain order.
According to him, while law enforcement agencies remain on top of the situation, citizens must stay vigilant and continue their normal daily activities.
Arogundade also challenged government to go beyond statements and ensure that those responsible for insecurity are held accountable, warning that failure to do so would erode public trust.
“We are going to hold the government accountable. If it is unable to hold individuals who are making life difficult for citizens in this country accountable, then we will also know what to do,” he said.
He added that accountability was essential to restoring confidence in governance and securing lasting peace.
In his remarks, the chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Ondo State, Rev. Fr. Anselm Ologunwa, reaffirmed the church’s commitment to unity through the Ecumenical Centre project, describing it as a symbol of cooperation among Christian denominations.
He explained that the centre, located at Ibule Soro, would include a 2,000-capacity worship facility, secretariat wing, guest house and a 1,500-seat event hall to support church activities.
Ologunwa disclosed that the project received support from the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who facilitated land acquisition and provided initial funding to kick-start construction.
Other clerics at the ceremony said the Ecumenical Centre would strengthen Christian unity, encourage dialogue and enhance the church’s role in national development.
