Archbishop Ndukuba’s Call for Justice: A Look at Nigeria’s Security Crisis

The grim reality of insecurity in Nigeria is again thrust into the spotlight following the murder of Venerable Edwin Achi, a Kaduna-based priest. Archbishop Henry Ndukuba, Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), didn’t mince words. He called for those responsible – not just the gunmen, but those who fund and support them – to be “shamed, blacklisted, and punished.” It’s a powerful statement, but how much impact will it have?

Ndukuba’s condemnation, reported on November 29th, hits hard. The death of a cleric, particularly after a month in captivity, underscores the pervasive insecurity plaguing the nation. It’s easy to dismiss this as just another news item in a country seemingly drowning in them. Yet, this incident, and the Archbishop’s response, provides a crucial lens through which to examine the challenges Nigeria faces.

He is right to highlight the “deepening insecurity” and the “failure to protect the innocent.” These aren’t just talking points; they reflect a lived experience for many Nigerians. These persistent attacks, whether targeting religious figures, families, or ordinary citizens, expose a system struggling to maintain order. But simply decrying the violence is not enough.

Ndukuba’s demands for accountability go beyond arresting the immediate perpetrators. He emphasizes the need to dismantle the networks that fuel these criminal activities – the financiers, the arms suppliers, the protectors. This is where the real challenge lies. For lasting change, it is vital to expose those networks. This necessitates more than just law enforcement; it demands political will and a willingness to confront powerful interests.

The Archbishop’s plea for the release of Venerable Achi’s wife and daughter, still held captive, adds another layer of urgency. He correctly points out that countless other families endure similar anguish. Ensuring their safe return must be a priority, and it requires a coordinated effort from authorities. Such a reunification needs to become a symbol of hope and a testament to the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens.

It’s worth noting the increasingly common nature of such violence. Ndukuba calls these acts “senseless acts of evil,” and that’s putting it mildly. A nation can’t develop amid such brutality. Peace, stability, and development require a secure environment. Nigeria’s ability to provide this is being severely tested.

Having observed similar patterns in other contexts, I am skeptical about how quickly things will improve. Corruption often obstructs justice. Those with the resources to finance these criminal groups frequently operate with impunity. Cracking down on them demands an overhaul of the system.

So, what can be done?

Enhanced Intelligence Sharing: Ndukuba urges for intensified intelligence sharing and coordinated operations. This is crucial, but it necessitates trust between different agencies and a willingness to overcome bureaucratic hurdles. Financial Transparency: Tracking the flow of funds is key to dismantling these networks. This requires greater scrutiny of financial transactions and a commitment to prosecuting those involved in illicit financing. Community Engagement: Involving local communities in intelligence gathering and security efforts can provide valuable insights and help build trust between citizens and authorities. Addressing Root Causes: Ultimately, tackling insecurity requires addressing the underlying issues that fuel it, such as poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunity.

This challenge is multifaceted. There are no easy solutions. Archbishop Ndukuba’s passionate appeal is a reminder that the cost of inaction is too high. It’s a call for a fundamental shift in approach, one that prioritizes justice, accountability, and the protection of all citizens. The government needs to exhibit that commitment through demonstrable action. Whether that happens remains to be seen. Nigeria’s future depends on it.

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Keywords: Nigeria security crisis, Archbishop Ndukuba, Edwin Achi murder, Kaduna priest killed, Church of Nigeria, religious violence Nigeria, insecurity in Nigeria, Nigeria justice