The Anglican Bishop of the Missionary Diocese of Oyo South, Dr. Olufemi Familoni, has appealed to the government to strengthen local vigilante groups with better equipment and training to help address the country’s worsening security situation.
Speaking after an ordination and installation ceremony held in the diocese on Sunday, Familoni expressed concern over the continued cases of kidnapping and bandit attacks, saying community-based security outfits have demonstrated their usefulness in tackling crime.
He specifically pointed to the role of Amotekun and other local security groups, urging authorities to provide them with the necessary resources to operate more effectively alongside conventional security agencies.
”The Amotekun security force, from reports, has helped to curb many cases of banditry. These local vigilance groups should be equipped and trained to use sophisticated weapons to combat these criminals in our bushes and forests.
“The killings in Nigeria are becoming really unbearable. We can’t continue as a nation like this. Our military is being overwhelmed. It’s time to encourage local groups to help and support in fighting insurgents,” he said.
The bishop noted that the police and military have recently recorded some successes in their operations but maintained that more government support is needed to boost their effectiveness.
“I think more can still be done to encourage the police and other security agencies to be more involved in curbing insecurity in the land.
“Recently, they have shown some bravery and have proved to be effective. I urge the Government to give them more support,” he said.
Familoni also spoke on the abducted pupils and teachers from Oyo State, expressing hope that they would soon regain their freedom while urging the authorities not to slow down rescue efforts.
“We are eagerly waiting and praying that our children and teachers will be rescued from the bush. The situation is becoming so disturbing. We are praying. But we are also urging the government not to relent in its efforts. Let there be political will to curb this menace,” he said.
He further advised political leaders and citizens not to politicise insecurity, stressing that protecting lives should remain a national priority.
“Human lives are too precious to be reduced to politics.
“The security forces should be empowered and given all the support they need to combat this menace,” he pleaded.
Also speaking at the event, the Bishop Missioner of the Church of Nigeria, The Rt. Rev. Akorede Okuyelu, encouraged the newly ordained ministers to remain steadfast in their calling despite challenges and opposition they may encounter.
“Ministry work will come with a lot of persecution. But for those who have been genuinely called by God, they will not be afraid of the odds.
“They will confront the forces of darkness with a conviction that God will see them through.”
He urged them to stay committed to evangelism and faithful service, reminding them that dedication to God’s work would not go unrewarded.