AMICHI, Nigeria (AP) — The Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Diocese of Amichi, has called for urgent change in national leadership, warning that any government unable to guarantee citizens’ security and welfare has “lost purpose, legality, usefulness, and continuity.”
The call was made by Bishop Ephraim Ikeakor in his presidential address at the Third Session of the Sixth Synod, held at St. James’ Anglican Church in Azigbo, Anambra State. The synod, attended by more than 30 bishops including Archbishop Alexander Ibezim of the Province of the Niger, focused on the theme: “Fight the good fight of faith: An imperative for all Christians, now or never.”
Ikeakor criticized Nigeria’s worsening security situation, citing killings, kidnappings and violence across states such as Benue, Plateau, Borno, Zamfara, Kaduna, Imo and Oyo. He said the government’s constitutional duty, as enshrined in Section 14(2)(b), is to ensure the security and welfare of the people, and argued that failure to meet this responsibility undermines the legitimacy of governance.
The bishop also condemned political leaders who, he said, failed to deliver on campaign promises made during the 2023 elections but are now seeking re‑election in 2027. He described such politicians as “reprobate‑minded” and urged Nigerians to reject them at the polls. He further lamented the collapse of key sectors including education, healthcare, infrastructure and justice, saying economic hardship has driven millions into multidimensional poverty.
Referencing Chinua Achebe’s There Was a Country, Ikeakor said Nigeria’s current realities reflect a deep national crisis. He argued that many citizens are now focused on survival rather than meaningful livelihoods, underscoring the urgency of reform. He described the handling of insecurity as “woefully failed,” adding that the system has not protected lives and property.
The bishop urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to participate actively in elections and ensure their votes count. He concluded that the country urgently needs a new direction in leadership to restore public trust and avert further decline. Observers note that the church’s intervention reflects growing frustration among civil society groups, and its message resonates beyond Nigeria as the nation’s stability remains critical to West Africa’s security and economic future.
