Methodist Church Nigeria Calls for Accountable Leadership, State Police, Credible Elections

 

By Abosede Adekunle 

Methodist Church Nigeria has called for stronger and more accountable leadership, credible elections, improved security and greater collaboration between government and faith-based organisations as it reaffirmed its commitment to the peace, unity and development of Nigeria.

The call was contained in the communiqué issued at the conclusion of the 50th/15th Biennial Conference of the Methodist Church Nigeria, held in the Archdiocese of Ibadan from August 2 to 9, 2026, under the theme, “I Will Fight for You” (Exodus 14:14).

The Church said the theme was particularly relevant to the challenges confronting the country, urging Nigerians not to succumb to fear, hopelessness or despair but to remain steadfast in faith while actively pursuing righteousness, justice, peace and responsible citizenship.

Economic Hardship and Governance

The Conference expressed deep concern over the economic hardship, hunger, unemployment, insecurity and declining standard of living affecting millions of Nigerians.

While acknowledging ongoing government reforms in various sectors, the Church identified corruption, impunity and mismanagement of public resources as major obstacles to national development.

It noted that despite increased revenues accruing to the Federal Government and increased allocations to state and local governments, the expected improvement in citizens' welfare remained largely elusive.

The Church also expressed concern over constituency projects whose budgetary allocations, it said, had not always translated into visible development at the grassroots.

It therefore called for transparent, accountable and people-oriented leadership, urging authorities to tackle corruption, protect public resources, promote investment, strengthen food security and create sustainable employment opportunities.

According to the Church, the benefits of economic reforms must be felt by ordinary Nigerians, particularly poor and vulnerable citizens.

Church Backs State Police Amid Insecurity

On the security situation, the Methodist Church Nigeria reiterated its support for the establishment of State Police, describing it as part of broader reforms needed to strengthen grassroots intelligence gathering, security and rapid response to emerging threats.

The Church expressed concern over persistent killings and violent attacks, particularly in Benue and Plateau States, as well as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, communal conflicts and other forms of criminality across the country.

It, however, commended security agencies and the relevant governments for the successful rescue of pupils, teachers and other abductees in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, as well as in Ogun, Kwara and Niger States.

The Conference also honoured the memory of Nigerians who had lost their lives to insecurity and prayed for the families of victims, including those who had been displaced, injured or otherwise affected.

The Church pledged continued support for efforts to combat insecurity through prayers, material assistance and moral instruction, while backing the government's position against the payment of ransom to kidnappers.

Condemns Xenophobia in South Africa

The Conference also condemned xenophobic attacks and anti-immigrant protests in South Africa, describing such incidents as an affront to human dignity, African solidarity and peaceful coexistence.

It commended the Federal Government for evacuating affected Nigerians and called on the governments of Nigeria and South Africa to intensify diplomatic engagement to protect lives, uphold justice and strengthen relations between the two countries.

Rejects Gender-Based Violence, Child Abuse

The Church reaffirmed the sanctity of human life and condemned sexual and gender-based violence, child abuse, human trafficking and all forms of exploitation of vulnerable persons.

It also commended healthcare professionals for their sacrifices and welcomed the temporary truce between the Federal Government and the National Association of Resident Doctors.

The Church urged both parties to sustain dialogue and implement agreed measures to prevent disruptions in healthcare delivery.

It further called for sustained investment in the nation's health sector and policies that protect human dignity and improve citizens' welfare.

Calls for Credible Elections and Good Governance

The Methodist Church Nigeria urged political parties, candidates and other political actors to uphold the rule of law and ensure that elections in Nigeria are peaceful, free, fair and credible.

The Conference welcomed the Federal Government's stated commitment to democratic governance and respect for the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

It also welcomed the government's assurance that it neither seeks nor supports the establishment of a one-party state.

The Church called on political office holders to discharge their responsibilities with integrity, humility, justice, accountability and compassion, stressing that the interests of Nigerians must take precedence over personal and partisan interests.

Seeks Stronger Government-Faith Partnership

The Conference advocated sustained engagement between government and faith-based organisations in the pursuit of national renewal.

It encouraged continued consultation with organisations including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN), noting the significant contributions of faith-based organisations to education, healthcare, humanitarian services, peacebuilding and moral formation.

The Church maintained that stronger cooperation between government, religious organisations and other stakeholders could contribute significantly to improving governance, security, economic recovery and the welfare of citizens.

Congratulates Incoming NBA President

The Methodist Church Nigeria also congratulated Mrs. Oyinkansola Badejo-Okusanya, SAN, on her election as the incoming President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

The Conference described her as a committed Methodist and prayed that God would grant her wisdom, strength and grace as she assumes the national responsibility.

Commends Oyo Government

The Church expressed appreciation to the Oyo State Government, the people of the state and security agencies for their hospitality, support and efforts toward ensuring a peaceful and secure environment throughout the Conference.

It prayed for continued peace, progress and prosperity in Oyo State.

“The Lord Shall Fight for Our Beloved Nation”

At the conclusion of the Conference, the Methodist Church Nigeria urged Nigerians to reject fear, hopelessness and division, while encouraging leaders to govern with justice, accountability, compassion and the fear of God.

The Church reaffirmed its commitment to prayer, moral leadership and constructive engagement with government and other stakeholders in advancing the nation's peace, unity and prosperity.

Drawing from Exodus 14:14, the biblical text behind the Conference theme, the Church declared:

“The Lord shall fight for our beloved nation, Nigeria, and we shall hold our peace.”

The communiqué was issued on August 9, 2026, and signed by the Secretary of Conference, Rt. Rev. Dr. Babatunde A. Taiwo; Conference Lay President, Sir (Ide) Ifeanyi N. Okechukwu, KJW; and the Prelate, His Eminence, Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, JP.