Ineffective Security, Historical Grievances; Bane of Nigerian Growth Says Bishop Nwakanma
Felix Udodirim ,Awka
The Bishop of Awka Diocese, Methodist Church, Nigeria , Rt Rev Moses Nwakanma has identified historical grievances and ineffective security responses as some of the challenges threatening the country’s well-being and development .
The Bishop made the statement during the 3rd Diocesan Synod of the church at Nkpor, in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra state.
Bishop Nwakanma said that as at April 2025, the security situation in the country deteriorated significantly with deadly conflicts which has reached alarming levels
His words“In Benue State, for instance, recent massacres have claimed hundreds of lives as armed herders attacked multiple farming settlements.
“The situation in Jos, Plateau State, remains equally dire, with inter-communal violence resulting in retaliatory attacks that have created cycles of bloodshed.
“These conflicts have complex roots in resource competition, historical grievances, and ineffective security responses. The federal government’s hesitancy to classify these attacks appropriately or implement decisive security measures has fuelled perceptions of bias and neglect among affected communities.”
He noted that the number of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) has increased tremendously across the Middle Belt region, thus creating a humanitarian crisis that overwhelms available resources.
He added that the federal government’s interference in state affairs has undermined democratic principles through the manipulation of security forces, judicial processes, and economic pressure.
The healthcare system struggles to meet basic needs, with public hospitals lacking essential medications and equipment.
He also lamented that the independence of electoral bodies had been questioned, following controversial decisions that appeared to favour those in power.
“Economic conditions have continued to worsen for ordinary Nigerians. Inflation remains stubbornly high, especially affecting food prices. The removal of fuel subsidies, while economically necessary, created hardships that have not been adequately addressed by promised palliative measures.
Youth unemployment continues to rise, creating a reservoir of frustration that fuels crime and makes young people susceptible to radical ideologies.
