Addressing the Official Opening Ceremony of the Church of Nigeria Standing Committee holding at St. Stephen’s Church, Osumenyi, Anambra State, the Primate decried the serial cases of insecurity that have left lives and properties unsafe. He asserted that the “weaponization of religious and tribal identities” is a fundamental driver of the nation’s intractable violence.

“It is evident that the massacre of Christians and the destruction of local communities are done to advance the interest of political and religious entities,” the Primate stated. He further criticized leaders who deny the reality of these events, noting that such denials send dangerous signals to the international community.

Highlighting an “expansionist land-grabbing agenda” as central to the crisis, Primate Ndukuba expressed concern that the government appears incapable of containing the genocide. He concluded with a direct plea: “We appeal that the international community should come to our aid. After all, Nigeria has served in many international peacekeeping projects”, he added.

Speaking on the theme of the meeting which is holding at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church, Osumenyi, Anambra State, “Serve the Lord: Imperative for the Family under God” (Joshua 24:14-15), the Primate emphasized that serving God with all one’s heart is a non-negotiable requirement for spiritual fruitfulness. Drawing from Matthew 6:24, he warned against the dangers of “double-mindedness” in worship. “No one can serve two masters,” he declared. “You cannot serve God and mammon.”

The Primate also reaffirmed the Church’s stance on traditional biblical values, vowing to protect the sanctity of marriage. He reiterated the Church of Nigeria’s total rejection of same-sex marriage and other sexual perversions, noting that these issues were the catalyst for the birth of GAFCON (Global Anglican Future Conference), which remains committed to defending orthodox faith against revisionist doctrines.

In his closing remarks, the Primate praised the hospitality of the host Bishop, Rt. Rev’d Ephraim Okechukwu Ikeakor, and his wife, Dame Nkem Ikeakor, thanking the entire Amichi Diocese for ensuring a successful and spiritually uplifting gathering of God’s people.

Speaking at St. Stephen’s Church, Osumenyi, during the Official Opening Ceremony of the ongoing Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) Standing Committee meeting, the Governor while commending the Church for its efforts, emphasized that the Church should not leave the burden of governance and societal development to the government alone.

Governor Soludo warmly welcomed the Church of Nigeria delegates to Anambra State, providing firm assurances that the state is safe for the gathering. In a significant policy update, he informed the assembly that the “sit-at-home” order has been effectively abolished in Anambra State.

Sharing context on this development, the Governor revealed that following his inauguration, he visited Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Biafra movement, in the prison and had a conversation regarding violence and civil disobedience in the South East. He noted that Kanu condemned the acts of killing and the enforcement of sit-at-home orders. Governor Soludo described the sit-at-home phenomenon as a form of sabotage designed to cripple the economy of the South East and, by extension, Nigeria.

The Governor highly praised the Presidential address delivered by the Primate, the Most Rev’d Dr. Henry Ndukuba, describing it as “wonderful, thought-provoking, and inspirational”.

He similarly commended the host Bishop, Rt. Rev’d Ephraim Okechukwu Ikeakor, for a timely welcome address that addressed the pressing issues of the moment. He thanked the Bishop for his leadership and for the warm reception accorded to the state’s guests.

Delivering his Presidential Address at the Standing Committee Meeting of the Church of Nigeria, held at St Stephen’s Anglican Church, Osumenyi, in the Diocese of Amichi, Anambra State, the Primate painted a sombre portrait of a nation under siege from criminality, banditry and insurgency.

He expressed deep concern over what he termed a pattern of violence against vulnerable communities, lamenting what he described as official reluctance in some quarters to acknowledge the scale of the crisis.

In measured but firm language, Primate Ndukuba argued that when a government appears unable to competently contain widespread insecurity, appeals for international support become both moral and necessary. He urged the global community not to remain indifferent, stressing that lives were being lost and communities traumatised.

The Anglican leader referenced high-profile incidents that have shocked the nation, including mass abductions of worshippers in Kaduna State, kidnappings of schoolchildren and teachers in Niger State, and the killing of a cleric following his abduction alongside members of his family. He said such episodes were not isolated tragedies but part of a broader pattern of insecurity that leaves families and communities devastated.

“Nigeria is bleeding,” he declared, warning that denial or downplaying of violent incidents only deepens public mistrust and compounds national grief.

While acknowledging statements and gestures from foreign leaders who have publicly recognised Nigeria’s security challenges, he maintained that temporary responses were insufficient in the face of what he described as a sustained humanitarian and security crisis. He called for coordinated international engagement aimed at saving lives and stabilising affected regions.

The Primate also criticised what he characterised as political correctness and image management before the international community, arguing that such approaches amount to a disservice to citizens confronting daily fear and uncertainty.

In his most forceful remarks, he framed the violence as part of a wider ideological and territorial agenda, warning that unchecked bloodshed could carry grave moral and historical consequences for the nation.

Security analysts note that religious leaders in Nigeria have increasingly assumed advocacy roles amid persistent insecurity, often serving as the moral voice for communities struggling with displacement, trauma and economic disruption. However, government officials have consistently rejected claims of religiously targeted campaigns, maintaining that criminality and insurgency affect citizens across faiths and regions.

As debate continues over the character and drivers of Nigeria’s insecurity, Primate Ndukuba’s address adds to mounting pressure on federal authorities to deliver measurable improvements in safety and accountability.

For many worshippers gathered in Osumenyi, the address was more than ecclesiastical routine; it was a plea born of anguish, reflecting the fears of congregations across the country who seek reassurance that their lives and liberties remain protected.

The Gates into the Cathedral and back exit was all locked against the Bishop and his wife and those with him. The back exit has to be broken for the Bishop to come out. The Primate, N.D. Okoh was alerted as well as the Provincial Archbishop Friday Imeakhai.

 The Primate Okoh, was abroad for an official duty that week. He sent an immediate message to the protesting group to calm down pending when he would return. He also asked them to be peaceful and law abiding, and open the locked gate of the church for worship. He directed the Archbishop Imeakhai and a number of other bishops from far and near to represent him at the scene of protest and resolve the issue. But shamefully, these people rejected all peaceful appeals.

Letters upon letters were written to them but never accepted. The legal department of the Diocese has to approach a high court in udu to seek court injunction to open the cathedral gate for worship. It was that the protesters complied with. And the Diocese dropped the case from continuing.

 These people rose into bigger propensity by collating a list of offences of the Bishop which concerns financial misappropriation, infidelity, high handedness, insult of elders and many flippant talks. And were published on social Media, and they went from church to church to buy the unguarded church wardens to join them in the fight against the bishop. While many rejected them, they won about 5 of them. And some members of some churches joined them. They named themselves, Rescue Sapele Diocese group.

They went to report the Bishop “crimes” to the Area command Police at Ughelli, who they push to do a public arrest. But they failed first attempt. And invited the Bishop and many others. This was honoured but they found no proof to hold the bishop.

They went to the EFCC with same allegations on two different occasions of different years. The Bishop and many clergy and staff of the Diocese were invited. They went with overwhelming proofs of innocence. But those complainers could not prove their case. Despite the EFCC secret investigators going underground to see these matter, no fact emerged against the bishop.

These same people went to seek arrest of the Bishop at the Zone 5 police at Benin. But while the Diocese produced counter claim of bishops abduction on July 28 at the cathedral, the police boss resorted to invite both parties for peace talk. And in that occasion, a committee was set up headed by bishop Christian Ide to look at the merit of the matter. Set up thru the Archbishop

The Bishop Ide Committee was first accepted by them but their unacceptable demand for proof from the bishop defence documents, which they couldn’t get made them to walk out of the committee.  There were many individuals who were concerned including the ovies of Oghara, Idjerhe, and Orodje of Okpe, who called them to discuss and settle the impasse but they rejected their calls. Only the Bishop’s side attended.

 While all of that was on, there were invention and peace meetings at the Diocese level, Provincial levels at Esan, peace.committees from time to time, none of the was allowed to work and resolve the issue. Church of Nigeria set up a dispute resolution committee headed by Archbishop chukwuma of Enugu Province, in June 4, 2017.

The Committee, instead of meeting with both sides separately and getting facts, they abused the process. They were going to protesters  to get accommodation, kolanuts, etc, the meetings the diocese had with them was used to humiliate the Bishop’s side and shut them up from giving evidence. But they allowed the protesters to visit the Archbishop Chukwuma at Enugu flippantly like Jerusalem Pilgrimage, just to sway Justice. When all that was happening, the clergy and lay People of Sapele Diocese wrote to the respective bodies to alert them of the marhandling of the case by the Archbishop Chukwuma committee. But no response came. At last, the promises they received from anyone of that committee, to nail the Bishop by flimsy allegations did not materialize.

Meanwhile, these protesters had gone on to sue the Diocese and the Bishop and Archbishop of Bendel in the High Court, in 2016. And the Archbishop Chukwuma committee did not make them step the case down. They lost the case after some years due to inability to prove their case.

The New Primate, Henry Ndukuba, when he resumed duty in 2020, his first point of assignment was Sapele Diocese. He visited the cathedral church of St. Luke Sapele, spend the whole day with them but their adamant nature didn’t end the problem.

He invited both parties to Abuja Sept 2020. Talks went well by all. But on return to Sapele, they send message back to Abuja on same refusal.

A new Committee CONARC by the National Church has been in this matter for about 2 or more years, with all effort to get the matter resolve. But these people who has no solid ground to prove their case still stand where they were.

Since these ten years, many of the members of those churches suffered lack of episcopal services. The primate, trying to given them spiritual oversight, set up those churches under a name, Special Archdeaconry, with 6 churches, with one of their senior priests as Supervisory priest, and those set up to be under his primatial chaplaincy.

 Not all members in those churches with them are supporting them but they remained there to keep themselves in their native church. Many outcry from them to Primate to end this crisis has been on. More persons who used to have sentiment with the protesters have turned, they also want peace restored.

The Primate, after receiving the report of the CONARC committee, directed with a letter, that the rescue group or special Archdeaconry, is dissolved, and directed the clergy with them should go and submit to their bishop, and a reconciliation service be held for all at the cathedral of St. Luke on Jan.18. The protesters still mobilized to block off the Primate’s representatives (Archbishop, bishops, CONARC, Bishop Erifeta, congregations across Sapele Diocese that day.

 The service has to be held elsewhere and returnees received and prayed for.

They still went to some of the churches this next Sunday Jan 25, 2026, to disrupt service again, in St. Andrew Sapele.

For those who don’t know, Sapele Diocese has 17 Archdeaconries, with about 80 clergy. And over 100 congratulations working with the Bishop, doing ministry and planting churches with crusades, evangelism, discipleship Activities etc.

Those protesting are few persons from within the cathedral and few churches, not the whole of those churches, and since that January 18, many are back to the Diocese.

How can the church of Nigeria allow this problem to continue?

Where is the crime of the Bishop, to warrant any punishment when the those that allege any crime cannot prove it?

Venerable Theophilus Usikaro

Diocesan Communicator, Diocese of Sapele

The bishops made the call in a communiqué released on Tuesday at the end of their first provincial meeting of 2026, held at the Jubilee Conference Centre, Ibadan, Oyo State. They observed that the proposed tax changes have sparked widespread concern, particularly among poor and vulnerable citizens.

The communiqué was signed by Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin, chairman of the province, and Most Rev. John Oyejola, its secretary.

According to the bishops, ”tax policies must be driven by fairness, accountability, and transparency, stressing that government should adopt a human-centred approach in enforcing the reforms. They advised that vulnerable groups should be given time and flexibility to adjust to the new tax regime before strict enforcement measures are applied.

The clerics cautioned that economic policies introduced without adequate sensitivity could worsen inequality and heighten social tension. They emphasised that taxation should not become an added burden on citizens already grappling with inflation, unemployment, and the rising cost of living.

While calling on Nigerians to exercise patience, the bishops insisted that tax authorities must show clear and visible accountability in the management of public resources.

Beyond taxation, the bishops expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s broader socio-economic challenges. They described the prolonged strike by health workers as distressing, noting that it has exposed ordinary Nigerians to unnecessary hardship and limited access to essential healthcare services.

Describing the situation as “tragic and unacceptable,” the bishops warned that failure to intervene urgently could lead to avoidable suffering and preventable deaths.

They also condemned the poor condition of major road networks, especially those linking cities in the South-West, and criticised the performance of some federal and state ministries, accusing them of failing to deliver results despite ongoing reform efforts.

The event opened with a solemn Holy Eucharist, consecrating the days ahead for deep reflection and a fresh commitment to the service of God.

The service which was held at the Bethany Chapel, Archbishop Adebola and Mrs. Oluranti Ademowo Christian Resource Centre (Faith Plaza), Bariga, Lagos was presided over by the host bishop, the Rt. Rev’d Dr. Ifedola Senasu Gabriel Okupevi on behalf of the Primate and Metropolitan, His Grace, the Most Rev’d Henry Chukwudum Ndukuba.

In full Anglican tradition, the retreat opened with hymns that reflected the theme for this year’s gathering: “Prepared and Useful to the Master” (2 Timothy 2:8–13). The atmosphere was one of devotion, gratitude, and renewed hope. Bishops and wives from dioceses across the Church of Nigeria gathered to rededicate themselves and their ministries to God.

The Rt. Rev’d Dr. Okupevi acknowledged that in past years, the Church had faced trials and challenges but gave thanks to God, whose faithfulness remains constant.

In a soul-searching sermon anchored on the theme of the retreat, Bishop Okupevi urged the Church leaders to remain steadfast in faith, deeply rooted in the study of Scripture. He also admonished all to be courageous in confronting false doctrines, and unwavering in commitment to faithful leadership and sacrificial service.

Drawing from 2 Timothy 2:8–13, Dr. Okupevi emphasised that discipleship remains central to Christian ministry, as soul-winning is precious to the heart of Christ. To be “useful to the Master,” he said, means being spiritually prepared, functional, and actively involved as vessels unto honour. He also reminded the bishops and wives that suffering is often part of ministry. He recalled Paul’s testimony in 2 Corinthians 11 that endurance, i.e., the grace to bear hardship with patience, is essential, especially in an age marked by resurgent idolatry, syncretism, and moral compromise.

While referencing James 4:12, Rt. Rev’d Dr. Okupevi called for humility in episcopal ministry. He warned that the dignity and privileges of high office can easily tempt church leaders toward pride and self-exaltation. He ended his sermon with the hymn, “Courage, brothers, do not stumble,” urging continued trust in God while faithfully doing what is right.

Rt. Rev’d Dr. Okupevi welcomed the Primate and Mama Nigeria, and all delegates to Lagos Diocese, the mother of many dioceses. He gave thanks to God for journey mercies granted to all participants.

The service featured rich moments of reverent worship, the reaffirmation of faith through the Nicene Creed, solemn prayers, and the singing of hymns that inspired reflection and devotion.

The Primate expressed deep appreciation to the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos and Mama Lagos for graciously hosting the retreat, for the love and hospitality extended to the bishops and their wives. He also thanked the Provost, The Very Rev’d Segun Ladeinde, and the other clergy who assisted the Bishop of Lagos in officiating the service.

He formally welcomed all the bishops and wives, thanking God for granting them safe travels from their various Episcopal Sees. The Primate also gave an overview of the retreat schedule, stressing the need for strict and timely adherence to the programme. He encouraged everyone to participate fully, noting that the core essence of the retreat is captured in the four “Rs”: Rest, Reflection, Refreshing, and Refire.

The Primate reminded the gathering that Tuesday, 6 January, is the Feast of Epiphany and urged everyone to attend the early morning Holy Communion service. He mentioned the Fathers of the Faith assigned to officiate, as well as others assigned to various aspects of the retreat.

The congregation was dismissed with the Benediction and the closing hymn, “Abide With Me, Fast Falls the Eventide,” entrusting all present into God’s loving care for the night

Anchored on the theme “Suffering as a Cleansed Vessel of Christ,” the devotional study was presented by the Bishop of Kebbi Diocese, the Most Rev’d Edmund Akanya.

The session opened with a compelling illustration of Ade, a newly recruited security office confronted by a violent robbery on his first deployment, Ade was tempted to flee but stood his ground, remembering that his badge symbolised not just honour, but sacrifice. This narrative set the tone for the study of 2 Timothy 2:8–13, inviting participants to reflect on how suffering often serves as a mark of genuine belonging in Christ.

The study emphasised Paul’s exhortation to remember Jesus Christ’s resurrection and lineage as the foundation of hope. It contrasted Paul’s imprisonment with the unhindered power of the Word of God, highlighting that while servants may be bound, the Gospel remains free. A deeply moving testimony was shared regarding a priest killed during missionary work. Remarkably, his widow later expressed a desire to return to the same community to continue the mission, having forgiven those responsible—a powerful witness to faith and the redemptive purpose of suffering.

Later in the day, in a session titled “Sent by God: Fulfilling Your Mission,” Bishop of Nsukka Diocese, The Rt. Rev. Aloysius Agbo charged the bishops to prioritise discipleship, warning that the Gospel must be deliberately translated to the next generation of ministers.

Bishop Agbo recommended that a compulsory period of “Spiritual Formation” be institutionalised in theological colleges for all ordination candidates. He further made a passionate plea to the Primate to ensure that the discipline of priests is strictly upheld for the future preservation of the Church.

The retreat also received a report from the planning committee for the upcoming GAFCON G26 conference holding in Abuja from March 3-6. The committee requested the assistance of all present to mobilise human and financial resources and to act as ambassadors for the conference. The Primate appreciated the committee for a job well done and invited the Bishop of Ondo Diocese, Bishop Oni, to pray for the committee and the success of the conference.

In his welcome address, the Primate, the Most Revd Dr Henry C. Ndukuba, expressed great delight that the Governor had come to felicitate with the bishops. He described Governor Sanwo-Olu as a leader who rules with “the fear of God and purpose”, acknowledging his timeliness in attending to situations in the state, whether good or bad.

Drawing from 2 Samuel 23:3–4, the Primate stated that leadership is a sacred trust, noting that the Church is proud that the Governor has carried this mantle with integrity and a heart for the people. He also used the opportunity to commiserate with the state regarding the recent fire incident which destroyed a multiple story building and many other goods and human lives, praying for the restoration of all that was lost and condolences to the families of lives lost.

Reflecting on the historical significance of the venue, Primate Ndukuba noted that it was fitting for the retreat to return to Lagos, as it was here that the retreat began in December 2000 under the leadership of the then Primate, Archbishop Peter Jasper Akinola. He described that inaugural gathering as a period of “deep repentance, restoration, and healing”, where the concept of the “monarchical bishop” crumbled, giving way to the biblical idea of “diaconate episcopacy”. He concluded by expressing the Church’s gratitude for the consistent support received from the Governor.

While responding, Governor Sanwo-Olu called for stronger synergy between the Church and the State, asserting that while the government formulates policies, faith is essential to stabilise and strengthen them.

Commending the retreat’s theme, “Prepared and Useful to the Master”, he noted that in times of anxiety and confusion, true usefulness goes beyond mere visibility.

“Many may be prominent but not necessarily useful,” Sanwo-Olu remarked. Sharing his personal experience in governance, he noted that he witnesses the pain and expectations of the people daily and urged the Fathers of Faith to remain focused, as leadership is fundamentally about stewardship and accountability.

The Bishop of Lagos, the Rt. Rev’d Dr Ifedola Okupevi, while welcoming the Governor, described him as a “committed member of the Diocese of Lagos”. He praised the Governor’s dedication as a member of the Synod and the Guild of Stewards, as well as his strides in healthcare, infrastructure, and education.

The Governor was accompanied by the Chairman of Bariga Local Council Development Area, Hon. Bukola Adedeji, and the Special Adviser on Christian Religious Matters, the Very Revd Bukola Adeleke Adebiyi.

The Dean of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), the Most Revd Dr Blessing Enyindah, offered prayers for the Governor. This was followed by prayers for the nation and the Church led by the Primate.

Archbishop Akinfenwa, who was consecrated Bishop of Sokoto on January 6, 1998 and later translated to Bishop of Ibadan in April 2000, stands as a towering figure in the Church of God, a mentor of mentors, a spiritual father, a builder of men and institutions, and a steadfast watchman on the walls of the Church.

His journey in ministry has been marked by an unwavering commitment to the authority of Scripture, deep pastoral sensitivity, courageous leadership, and an enduring passion for evangelism and church growth.

As a mentor, he has shaped generations of clergy and church leaders, investing time, wisdom, prayer, and personal example. Many who serve today as bishops, priests, and leaders across the Church of Nigeria can trace their formation and encouragement to his guidance. His mentorship has been both firm and fatherly—challenging excellence while nurturing grace.

As a builder, Archbishop Akinfenwa has laboured tirelessly to strengthen the Church spiritually, structurally, and institutionally. From diocesan foundations to provincial leadership, his imprint is evident in strong administrative frameworks, theological depth, and a culture of discipline anchored in faithfulness to Christ.

He has built not only structures but also people—men and women grounded in truth and committed to service.

As a shepherd and leader, he exemplifies integrity, humility, courage, and consistency. His voice has remained clear and prophetic in a changing world, calling the Church to holiness, mission, and faithfulness to her divine mandate. Through seasons of challenge and triumph, he has remained resolute, trusting God and pointing others to the sufficiency of His grace.

Today, as we celebrate these significant anniversaries, we honour a life poured out in service to God and His Church; a life that reflects perseverance, obedience, vision, and love. We also acknowledge and celebrate his beloved wife and family, whose partnership, sacrifice, and support have been integral to this enduring ministry.

We thank God for the gift of the Most Rev’d Dr. Joseph Olatunji Akinfenwa to the Church of Nigeria and the Anglican Communion at large. We pray that the Lord will renew his strength, crown his years with fresh oil, and grant him many more fruitful seasons of impact, joy, and fulfilment in Christ.