Anglican bishop warns Christians now targets of banditry, kidnapping

The Anglican Bishop of Egba Diocese, Ogun State, Dr Emmanuel Oludaisi Adekunle, has raised the alarm over the worsening insecurity in Nigeria, warning that Christians and church leaders are increasingly vulnerable to banditry and kidnapping.

Adekunle, who is also the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Ogun State, said the security situation had become so precarious that some church leaders now avoid travelling in clerical attire for fear of being identified by criminal elements.

According to him, the era when bishops and pastors could travel openly in their clerical garments without security concerns has changed.

“Banditry is what we are facing generally now, including the church. I always tell people that an average Christian in Nigeria is already a target; the person may not even know it. How much more a minister of the Gospel,” he said.

The bishop explained that some clergy now travel “as a commoner” and conceal their identities to reduce the risk of being abducted or attacked.

Adekunle, however, commended security agencies for their response to a recent kidnapping incident in Owo, Ondo State, where the police, Department of State Services (DSS), military, Amotekun Corps and local hunters reportedly worked together to rescue victims.

He urged governors in the South-West to strengthen regional cooperation among Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo and Ekiti states to combat kidnapping, banditry and other forms of criminality.

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The cleric also called for modern security equipment, including drones and surveillance technology, for Amotekun operatives and other local security personnel who, he noted, possess valuable knowledge of forest routes and difficult terrains.

“They know the forests where conventional security agencies sometimes find it difficult to operate. They should be properly equipped because money is being appropriated for security,” he said.

Adekunle further disclosed that CAN leadership had advised churches to reduce night vigils held in open environments as part of measures to protect worshippers from security threats.

His comments came amid renewed concerns over attacks on Christian communities in parts of the country, including a recent funeral for Christians reportedly killed in an attack in Kaduna State.

The bishop’s warning adds to growing calls from Christian leaders for stronger security measures and greater collaboration between governments, security agencies and local communities to protect lives and places of worship across Nigeria.