Anglican Diocese Raises Alarm Over Terrorists’ Infiltration of South-East Forests

Ebenezer Adurokiya, Reporting 

ENUGU — The Anglican Diocese of Enugu has issued an urgent call for immediate action following reports that terrorists have infiltrated forests across the South-East, warning that the region is increasingly vulnerable to attacks.

The resolution, contained in a communique issued at the conclusion of the 3rd Session of the 19th Synod of the Diocese, held at St Peter’s Church, Ogbete, Enugu, from Wednesday 24th to Sunday 28th June 2026, urged both federal and state governments to “flush out the terrorists from their hiding places” without delay.

The Synod was presided over by the Bishop of the Diocese of Enugu, His Lordship, Rt Rev Prof Samuel Obiajulu Ike.

Concerns Over Security Spending

The Church expressed deep concern that despite the “humongous allocation” of N5.41 trillion in the 2026 budget for security, the menace of insecurity continues to ravage the country – including the horrific kidnapping and killing of innocent children and teachers in schools.

The Synod also condemned what it described as “needless” back-and-forth arguments about Christian genocide, stating that it is “obvious that Christians are intentionally being targeted for elimination in Northern Nigeria”.

The Church called on the Government to severely punish terrorists and their sponsors, and demanded sanctions against social media platforms that allow the spread of fear and terror by both Nigerians and terrorists.

Infrastructure and Development Concerns

The Diocese expressed dismay over the delayed completion of the Eastern Rail Line (Port Harcourt–Maiduguri) project, describing it as a “pipe dream” and calling on the Federal Government to expedite action to alleviate the suffering of the people.

On the power sector, the Synod noted that nearly three years after President Bola Tinubu’s promise of affordable, accessible and reliable electricity, Nigerians continue to “grope in darkness” while facing high tariffs.

2027 Elections and Good Governance

Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, the Synod expressed displeasure at the “overheating of the polity” by politicians and urged political parties to play by the rules. It called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a level playing field for all parties and candidates.

The Church also urged the electorate to obtain their voter cards to be eligible to vote.

Commendation for Enugu State Government

The Synod commended the Enugu State Government under Governor Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, describing it as “primus inter pares” among states in good governance, and acknowledged “giant strides” in infrastructure, security, health and education.

It also welcomed the government’s response to calls for downward reviews of multiple taxes that had been making life unbearable for residents, though it called for further reductions.

Zero Tolerance for Gender-Based Violence

In a significant move, the Diocese declared “zero tolerance for Gender-Based Violence (GBV)” and called on governments, civil rights organisations and individuals to fight against such inhumane activities.

The resolution was signed by the Bishop, Rt Rev Prof Samuel Obiajulu Ike; the Chancellor, Prof Offornze D. Amucheazi (SAN); the Synod Secretary, Rev Canon Dr Ifeanyi Agu; and the Registrar, H/H Paulson C. Egbo.

The Synod also offered congratulations to President Tinubu on his third anniversary in office, acknowledging milestones including the unification of Nigeria’s foreign exchange windows and improved tax administration – though it reminded the President that he had promised “much more”.