The Ekiti Anglican Diocese of the Church of Nigeria has called for a level playing field for all political parties in Nigeria’s elections, while also urging proper reinvestment of funds saved from the removal of fuel subsidy.
This position was contained in a communiqué issued at the Third Session of the Diocese’s 20th Synod in Ado Ekiti, themed “Children are the Heritage of God.” The document was signed by drafting committee chairman Taiwo Olatunbosun and Secretary Emmanuel Ojo.
The Synod, which coincided with the Diocese’s 60th anniversary, was presided over by the Anglican Bishop of Ekiti Diocese, Andrew Ajayi, alongside his wife, Bolarinwa Ajayi, President of the Women and Girls’ Organisations.
Beyond electoral issues, the gathering stressed the need to invest in young people as future leaders, urging governments at all levels to prioritise job creation and expand entrepreneurial opportunities.
It stated, “Reducing unemployment will significantly improve both the economy and national security,” while advocating mass industrialisation as “a strategic shift from a consumption-driven economy to a production-based economy.”
On security, the Synod urged President Bola Tinubu to “intensify efforts and adopt enhanced collaborative strategies to curb rising banditry, particularly in Northern Nigeria.”
It also raised concerns over ongoing violence across the country, calling for stronger action against bandits, kidnappers, and terrorists. “The Synod welcomes international collaboration, particularly with the United States of America, in training Nigerian Armed Forces in intelligence gathering and counter-terrorism strategies.
“The Synod commends the Federal Government for its efforts in combating corruption and urged that the fight be intensified, broadened, and pursued without bias or selective justice. It further recommends that funds saved from fuel subsidy removal be transparently reinvested into the economy to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.”
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, the Synod reiterated its support for credible and transparent polls, urging the EFCC and ICPC “to prosecute perpetrators of vote-buying,” while also calling on security agencies to tackle political thuggery.
It further urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to remain neutral and ensure that all valid votes count.
“We are advocating a level playing field for all political parties in all elections in Nigeria. We advise citizens to conduct themselves responsibly and participate actively in the democratic process,” the communiqué read.
The Synod also encouraged greater involvement of Christian youths in politics and urged public office holders to uphold integrity.
On the upcoming June 20 governorship election in Ekiti State, the church emphasised the need to maintain the existing peace before, during, and after the poll.