Catholic leaders within the Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province have voiced strong opposition to the policy of reintroducing former bandits into communities and security forces. They argue this approach is fundamentally unfair and ignores the suffering of those victimized by violence throughout Nigeria.
This declaration arrived during a press briefing as anxiety mounts regarding the 39 students and seven teachers kidnapped from their school in Esiele, Oyo State, who have remained in captivity for over a month. Gabriel Leke Abegunrin and Anselm Lawani, representing the province, stated that prioritizing rehabilitation for perpetrators over support for victims damages public trust and promotes a culture of impunity.
The bishops maintain that criminals must face legal consequences rather than receiving state-sponsored leniency. They contend that this lack of accountability endangers national security and encourages further aggression. To address the country’s instability, the clerics are pushing for urgent government action to rescue the Esiele abductees and implement major security reforms.
Proposed improvements include better forest monitoring, advanced technology integration, and the establishment of state-level police forces. The bishops emphasize that genuine national unity relies upon justice and the fair treatment of crime victims. They concluded by demanding the legal prosecution of all kidnappers and terrorists while appealing for public prayers for the safety of the captive school community.
