African Church Primate Calls for Stronger Government Action on Insecurity at Clergy Investiture

His Eminence Julius Osayande Abbe, Primate and Spiritual Head of The African Church, Nigeria and Overseas, urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to tackle insecurity during an investiture ceremony in Lagos. Abbe warned that the worsening situation is causing widespread fear and suffering across the country.

He described the level of insecurity as frightening and said citizens have no guarantee of returning home safely after leaving.

Abbe also announced support for the Christian Association of Nigeria's planned national mourning over insecurity. He said the association had declared June 14 a Black Sunday following a meeting in Abuja. "We resolved to declare a period of mourning for our dear country.

Abbe lamented the continued abduction of citizens, including schoolchildren and teachers held for over two weeks. He said the parents and families of those children in captivity are crying.

Politicians should think more about our safety and security. Politics should never be played with human lives," he said. Abbe said churches in Northern Nigeria had suffered persecution, with buildings razed and members' farms and properties destroyed.

He urged church members to obtain voter cards and participate actively in elections. Newly elevated clerics were charged to serve with humility, integrity and dedication.