At the fifteenth synod of the Warri Diocese, Rt. Rev. Christian Esezi Ide delivered a powerful indictment of Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, particularly the targeted violence against Christian populations. Speaking at the Cathedral of St Andrew, Warri, under the theme “Overcoming the birthright of Christians,” the bishop revealed alarming statistics from the Observatory for Religious Freedom in Africa: over 55,000 Christians have been killed in Nigeria between 2019 and 2023, representing 90% of global Christian fatalities in that period.
The bishop questioned the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens, highlighting the unchecked violence by militant herdsmen who operate with impunity. “Why should the government sit and watch militant herdsmen steal and vandalise, kill and boast about it, kidnap and rape?” he asked, suggesting the attacks constitute religious cleansing.
He called on the federal government to take urgent, concrete steps to halt the bloodshed, improve border security, and partner with local vigilantes to restore peace. The bishop warned that Nigeria risks becoming a “land flowing with tears and blood” if the current trajectory continues.
Beyond security, Rt. Rev. Ide addressed Nigeria’s political and social fractures. He advocated for a new constitution drafted by a sovereign assembly representing all ethnic groups to resolve deep-seated divisions. He also supported the establishment of a National Reconciliation Commission to heal historic grievances.
The bishop highlighted Nigeria’s fragile economy, marked by inflation, foreign debt, and the fallout from subsidy removals, which have worsened living conditions. He welcomed government initiatives like the agro-industrial processing zones but cautioned against policy inconsistencies that could undermine progress.
In the health sector, he lamented the low life expectancy and underfunding of healthcare, compounded by the suspension of USAID support for critical programs. He urged increased domestic investment to sustain health services.
On governance, the bishop emphasized the judiciary’s crucial role and called for its independence and integrity to be safeguarded. He also urged clarity on education reforms to prevent confusion.
Addressing social concerns, he condemned the rise in gender-based violence and called for stronger protective measures.
Finally, he praised Delta State’s development efforts under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori but urged peaceful resolution of ethnic tensions sparked by recent electoral boundary changes in Warri.
The bishop’s address called for a comprehensive national response to Nigeria’s multifaceted crises to restore security, unity, and prosperity.