The Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Enugu, Rt. Rev. Samuel Ike, has urged the Federal Government to discontinue the policy of reintegrating repentant terrorists into society, insisting that individuals involved in terrorism should face prosecution and punishment in line with the law.
Speaking during his State of the Nation address at the 3rd Session of the 19th Synod of the Diocese, held at St. Peter's Anglican Church in Enugu, Bishop Ike said it was unjust to rehabilitate people responsible for violent attacks that have claimed thousands of innocent lives.
While acknowledging President Bola Tinubu's efforts to strengthen the country's security through increased military funding and reforms within the security architecture, the bishop maintained that stronger action was needed to address the nation's growing insecurity.
He called on the President to dismiss and sanction any cabinet members perceived to be sympathetic to terrorist groups, especially those who publicly describe them as "our brothers." He also urged the government to stop referring to terrorist groups as "Boko Haram insurgents," insisting they should simply be identified as terrorists.
According to the cleric, Nigerians convicted of less serious offences have received severe punishments, including death sentences, while those responsible for large-scale killings and destruction are being considered for rehabilitation instead of facing justice.
Bishop Ike also criticised the National Assembly, accusing lawmakers of failing to prioritise security despite the worsening situation across the country. He described it as unfortunate that foreign legislators, particularly in the United States, appeared to be showing greater concern about Nigeria's security challenges.
He lamented the continuous loss of military officers and soldiers in the fight against terrorism, as well as the increasing cases of abductions involving women and children. The bishop also noted that Nigeria has reportedly moved from sixth to fourth position on the 2026 Global Terrorism Index.
The bishop further urged the Federal Government to hold social media platforms accountable whenever they are used by terrorist groups to spread fear and propaganda. Citing Amnesty International, he said more than 1,100 Nigerians were abducted between January and March 2026.
He recalled the kidnapping of candidates travelling to sit for the 2026 JAMB examination in Benue State, as well as deadly attacks in Plateau State, warning that many victims continue to endure torture, starvation, rape, amputations and other forms of inhumane treatment.
"If urgent and decisive action is not taken, we may realise too late that indeed 'there was a country,'" he warned, borrowing the title of Chinua Achebe's final work.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Bishop Ike cautioned that insecurity could threaten the electoral process if citizens are not adequately protected. He advised political leaders to avoid actions capable of heating up the political atmosphere and urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure fairness and equal opportunities for all political parties and candidates.
