David Williams
The Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Ado Ekiti, has ended its Fourth Synod with a call on federal and state governments to urgently address Nigeria’s worsening economic hardship and insecurity.
This is contained in a communiqué signed by Lay President Sir Chief Olajide Borode, Synod Secretary The Very Rev’d Augustus O. Ogundimu, and Diocesan Bishop The Rt. Rev. Jeremiah A. M. Shittu.
While reaffirming its commitment to prayer, unity and social action, the Church affirmed that urgent, pragmatic and workable actions must be taken to end the wanton killings and destruction of property by bandits.
The four-day gathering held from 30 April to 3 May 2026 at Olasokan Memorial Methodist Church, Iyin Ekiti, brought together clergy, laity, and ecumenical observers under the theme _“I Will Fight for You”_ from Exodus 14:14.
The Synod was presided over by the Bishop of Ado Ekiti Diocese, The Rt. Rev. Jeremiah Abidemi M. Shittu, with Lay President Sir Chief Olajide Borode in attendance.
In the communiqué issued after deliberations, the Synod said the period remained “particularly trying” for Nigerians due to inflation, insecurity, and rising inhumanity, which have cost lives and livelihoods.
The Synod expressed gratitude to God for sustaining the Church despite national challenges and urged members to deepen prayer, evangelism, and Christian social engagement.
It emphasized the need for greater youth participation and leadership development, and reaffirmed its commitment to Christian unity and collaboration across denominations.
While acknowledging the fiscal intent of the Federal Government regarding the fuel subsidy removal, the Synod urged governments at all levels to roll out effective palliatives and strengthen social protection for vulnerable citizens.
It also backed the Federal Government’s Compressed Natural Gas initiative and called for a review of wages to reflect current realities.
On security, the Synod condemned the killing of a clergyman and the kidnapping of worshippers during a vigil in Eda Oniyo, Ekiti, and urged the Federal Government to restructure the security architecture, improve intelligence sharing and expedite the creation of state police.
The Church also expressed solidarity with Christians in Northern Nigeria facing persistent attacks.
Looking ahead to the Ekiti governorship election on 20 June 2026 and the 2027 general elections, the Synod urged political actors to shun violence, INEC to ensure transparency, and security agencies to remain neutral.
The Church commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for progress in infrastructure, agriculture, and the consistent payment of salaries and pensions.
It encouraged the state to leverage opportunities in the deregulated power sector to improve electricity and deepen public-private partnerships.
