SUNTV Global Channel | January 20, 2026
Catholic Bishops of the Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province have called for a united and sustained national effort to end banditry, kidnapping and other forms of insecurity in Nigeria, stressing that the protection of lives and property remains a sacred responsibility of government at all levels.
The call was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the bishops’ first meeting of 2026, held from January 19 to 20 at the Jubilee Conference Centre in Ibadan.
The meeting brought together bishops from the Ibadan Archdiocese and the dioceses of Ilorin, Ondo, Oyo, Ekiti and Osogbo.
In the communiqué, the bishops commended the Federal Government for what they described as a renewed and more determined approach to tackling insecurity across the country.
“We support the recent zealous change in approach of the Federal Government to the issue of insecurity in Nigeria,” the bishops said, noting that recent developments have shown that insecurity can be reduced when there is clear political will.
Signed by the Chairman, Most Rev. ‘Leke Gabriel Abegunrin, and the Secretary, Most Rev. John Akin Oyejola, the bishops urged federal, state and local governments to work in synergy to criminalise and prosecute banditry, kidnapping and insurgency without bias.
They stressed that the law must be applied equally to all, “without fear or favour,” describing this as a key strategy for restoring peace and justice.
The bishops also called on Nigerians to embrace unity and peace, reminding citizens that human life is sacred and that no one has the right to take another person’s life.
On economic matters, the bishops expressed concern over ongoing tax reforms. While acknowledging government efforts to explain the changes, they cautioned that fairness, transparency and accountability must guide the implementation of tax policies.
They appealed to authorities to show patience and compassion, particularly towards vulnerable citizens, and to allow adequate time for adjustment before enforcing strict penalties.
The bishops also welcomed recent progress in the education sector, especially the agreement reached between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU). They described the development as worthy of “unmitigated commendation” and called for its faithful implementation to put an end to recurring university strikes.
They further urged government support for private and mission universities, noting that all tertiary institutions play a vital role in training Nigeria’s future leaders.
On Church matters, the bishops reaffirmed the Church’s mission to bring hope to the poor, freedom to captives and support to the oppressed. They encouraged the wider promotion of Catholic Social Teaching, describing its principles as effective tools for social development and nation-building.
They also emphasised the importance of catechesis and ongoing formation, endorsing the Youth Catechism of the Catholic Church (YOUCAT) as a key resource for youths and adults, especially in the face of modern ideologies and societal challenges.
The communiqué concluded with a call for prayer, hope and good works.
“Prayer must be accompanied by a commitment to good works wherever we find ourselves,” the bishops said, urging Nigerians to resist cynicism and work collectively towards a better and more peaceful future.
