Stop defending, go after bandits attacking Nigerians — Christian elders task FG

The Kogi East Christian Elders Forum has joined the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Middle Belt Forum (MBF) to urge the Nigerian Government to take decisive action against the bandits attacking citizens rather than focusing solely on defensive measures.

In a communiqué issued in Kaduna on Friday, following a two-day Annual National Prayer Congress, the Elders Forum expressed its support for President Donald Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” due to the ongoing acts of genocide against Christians in the nation.

The communiqué, signed by the National President, Pastor Joseph Egwuda, and the Secretary, Elder Joel Dagono, stressed that the recent designation by the U.S. President should serve as a wake-up call for the Nigerian government.

The Forum reaffirmed its solidarity with the Middle Belt Forum in opposing any attempts to label the Middle Belt as a mere appendage of the North, emphasizing that the Middle Belt is neither Northern nor Southern but a distinct region of Nigeria.

Additionally, the Congress expressed its support for CAN and the Middle Belt Forum in their mutual commitment to collaborate with leaders who are considerate of the interests of the Middle Belt.

The communiqué encouraged self-help and called on pastors and other church leaders to prioritize the safety of their congregations. Church leadership is urged to strategize with the Kogi East Neighborhood Watch, a community security organization, and engage youth to protect their churches through cooperative networking.

The Congress endorsed the mobilization of young people through vetted and approved vigilante groups to patrol, raise alarms, and defend their communities against bandit attacks.

Recognizing the need to educate and sensitize Kogi East stakeholders about the importance of preserving the Igala language and culture, the Forum urged them to participate actively in the current voter registration process.

The Congress resolved to engage more intentionally with heads of denominations, CAN, and other like-minded Christian organizations to promote political education among Christians. This aims to develop a system for identifying, endorsing, and mobilizing trustworthy candidates for political office.

Furthermore, the Congress condemned the reckless and indiscriminate treatment of foreigners and non-indigenes by some traditional leaders in Kogi East and called for caution regarding such practices.

Finally, the communiqué emphasized the Congress’s commitment to pray for and support citizens from Kogi East, Kogi State, and the Middle Belt who are granted opportunities to serve their country in leadership roles. The Congress also anticipates increased opportunities from the government for the appointment of educated and skilled individuals from the region into various public service and leadership positions.

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