By correspondent in Lokoja.
The Most Rev’d Dr. Emmanuel A.S. Egbunu, Bishop of Lokoja Diocese.
The Diocese of Lokoja, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), has issued a strong call to all levels of government in Nigeria to demonstrate decisive political will in tackling the worsening state of insecurity in the nation.
This appeal formed part of the Communiqué issued at the end of the First Session of the Eleventh Synod of the Diocese, held from April 25 to 27, 2025, at Emmanuel Anglican Church, Lokoja,Kogi State.
The Synod, presided over by His Grace, The Most Rev’d Dr. Emmanuel A.S. Egbunu, Bishop of Lokoja Diocese, was themed “Peace with God: The Victory of the Atonement.”
The Synod expressed deep concern over the growing lack in the country and emphasized that urgent, proactive steps must be taken to address the national security crisis.
Highlighting the strategic importance of Kogi State as the “natural heart of Nigeria,” the Diocese called for the state to be developed as a model for multilateral growth and governance.
The Synod noted with regret that politics has become a new “religion,” dominating national consciousness at the expense of godly values, integrity, and discipline and called for repentance and a national return to righteousness and moral decency.
Emphasizing that true peace and redemption can only be attained through Jesus Christ, the Synod urged Christians to pursue peace relentlessly—within themselves, their communities, and the nation—while remaining prayerful and spiritually vigilant.
The Synod praised Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for the regular and prompt payment of salaries and pensions and encouraged the state government to sustain this commendable practice.
The Diocese, however ,expressed dismay over accident on the Felele highway, labeling it a deathtrap, and called for immediate government intervention.
The Synod applauded the introduction of the Interreligious Council and urged that it be strengthened for the sake of peace and unity in Kogi State.
It also called for the immortalization of Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther in recognition of his significant role in the region’s Christian heritage.
A football tournament named after The Most Rev’d Emmanuel A.S. Egbunu was announced, aimed at encouraging youth participation and development within the Diocese.
The Synod, in session, expressed deep sympathy with the Catholic faithful over the passing of Pope Francis, describing him as a “man of faith and Godliness.”
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
