The United Methodist Church in Nigeria (UMCN) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take immediate policy actions to combat youth unemployment, hunger, poverty, and insecurity, particularly the ongoing Boko Haram insurgency. In a communiqué released at the conclusion of its joint annual conference in Jalingo, Taraba State, the church emphasized the urgent need for interventions to alleviate the hardship facing Nigerians. Concerns Over Worship Center Closures in Taraba The statement, signed by Mr. Anchau Andrew, chairman of the communiqué committee, expressed deep concern over the closure of UMCN worship centers in Taraba State. The church described the situation as a source of distress for its members, calling on the state government and religious leaders to resolve the ongoing dispute with a breakaway faction. Commitment to Traditional Marriage and Human Rights Advocacy Reaffirming its stance on marriage, the church upheld the traditional definition of marriage as a union between a man and a woman, in alignment with its Social Principles. Additionally, UMCN strongly condemned extrajudicial killings and human rights violations, emphasizing the need to uphold human dignity and promote peace across Nigeria. Legal Action Over Church Property Dispute Addressing the ongoing legal battle regarding the ownership of UMCN school properties, the church announced its decision to seek a court injunction to reclaim its assets from the breakaway faction currently in control. Educational Revitalization and Name Change for Seminary As part of its commitment to education, the church reaffirmed its decision to rename Banyam Theological Seminary (BTS) to United Methodist Church University, Bambur. It also pledged to revive its Adult Education Program and introduce Accelerated Christian Education (ACE) into all UMCN school curriculums. Additionally, the communiqué called for the revival of UMCN Nursery and Primary School in Jalingo to enhance literacy and learning opportunities. Conclusion UMCN’s call for action reflects the widespread concerns of many Nigerians struggling with economic and security challenges. The church’s appeal to President Tinubu underscores the urgency of implementing policies that will restore peace, improve education, and create economic opportunities for the nation. Nigeria’s Economic and Security Challenges READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
South-South Leaders Decry Emergency Rule in Rivers State The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sparked widespread criticism from South-South leaders and political stakeholders. Many have labeled the move as unconstitutional and a direct attempt to take control of the oil-rich region, further fueling tensions. Former Akwa Ibom Attorney General Calls Move “Ill-Advised” Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Uwemedimo Nwoko, a former Attorney General of Akwa Ibom State, strongly opposed the emergency rule, stating it does not align with constitutional provisions. According to him, “The conditions required for a state of emergency have not been met. This decision appears to be a calculated political maneuver rather than a legitimate action.” Ijaw Youth Council Rejects Tinubu’s Decision Ex-President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Eric Omare, also condemned the decision, asserting that President Tinubu’s intervention has been biased. “Removing Governor Siminalayi Fubara will not resolve the crisis. Instead, it emboldens those fueling the conflict,” Omare stated. He further accused the administration of favoring the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, who has been at the center of the controversy. PANDEF Monitoring the Situation The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the apex socio-political body for the South-South geopolitical zone, has expressed grave concern over the development. PANDEF spokesperson Chief Obiuwevbi Ominimini stated, “We are seriously alarmed by the state of emergency imposed in Rivers State. This crisis was avoidable, and we will soon release our official stance on the matter.” Ex-MOSIEND Spokesperson Questions Political Motives Amaebi Clarkson, former national spokesman of the Movement for the Survival of Ijaw Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND), believes the move is politically motivated ahead of the 2027 elections. “The president’s actions suggest a well-orchestrated script to seize control of Rivers State,” Clarkson remarked. He further accused Wike of instigating the crisis and the federal government of turning a blind eye to his actions. Ijaw Youth Council Calls It “Oppression” The Ijaw Youth Council, represented by spokesman Amb. Binebai Princewill, labeled the emergency rule as “oppression and intimidation of Ijaw people.” According to Princewill, “There are states grappling with severe insurgencies from Boko Haram and herdsmen, yet no emergency rule was declared. This targeted action against Rivers State raises serious concerns.” APC Chieftain Urges Reconciliation Elder statesman and APC chieftain in Edo State, Hon. Charles Idahosa, sees the situation as an opportunity for resolution. “Fubara, lawmakers, and the FCT Minister must come together and find common ground. The presidency had previously tried to mediate, but the parties involved failed to cooperate. Now is the time to resolve their differences.” Conclusion The emergency rule in Rivers State has triggered national debate, with critics questioning the constitutional basis of the decision. While the Nigerian Bar Association and South-South stakeholders have spoken against the move, the federal government insists it is necessary to restore order. For a deeper understanding of the constitutional implications, read this analysis by a legal expert. The Guardian – Nigerian Political Crisis READ ALSO; Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
