The Anglican Diocese of Enugu has raised the alarm over the deteriorating security situation across several states in Nigeria and accused some security chiefs of diverting funds allocated for national safety.

The warning was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the second session of the 19th Synod of the Diocese, held at St. Paul’s Church, China Town, Enugu, from Thursday, June 26 to Sunday, June 29.

The communiqué was jointly signed by Canon Ifeanyi Agu, synod secretary; Paulson C. Egbo, registrar; Prof. Offornze Amucheazi, chancellor; and Bishop Samuel O. Ike, who presided over the session themed “Living by every word of God” (Matthew 4:4).

The Church expressed concern over the increasing spate of killings and violence, particularly in Benue, Imo, Plateau, and Enugu states, despite the government’s heavy spending on security.

“The Synod expresses displeasure over resurgence of violence and killings in the country, especially in Benue, Enugu, Plateau and Imo states, among others, even with enormous resources committed to the fight against insecurity,” the communiqué read.

It accused top security officers of colluding with criminal groups to sabotage national security.

“The Synod frowns at reports of alleged complicity and collusion of security and intelligence chiefs with bandits and terrorists in the fight against insecurity and siphoning of funds voted for security and urges the President to investigate and prosecute, where necessary, those indicted,” it added.

The Diocese called on President Bola Tinubu to exercise his constitutional powers to protect citizens and restore public trust in security institutions.

The Synod also urged the National Assembly to support the creation of state and community police as a means to curb insecurity and decentralise the security system.

“The Synod calls on the National Assembly to facilitate the creation of state and community police to improve security and prevent wanton destruction of lives and properties, and improve the ranking of Nigeria in the Global Terrorism Index,” it said.

Addressing youth-related concerns, the Church highlighted the link between unemployment and rising insecurity.

“The Synod notes the challenge of youth restiveness and the need to urgently take steps to stem the tide by prioritising the needs of the youths and making efforts to reduce the number of unemployed youths by ensuring that their voices are heard,” the diocese noted.

To support internal security, the Diocese announced the creation of two local structures.

“It is in this light that the Diocese approved the establishment of the Diocese of Enugu Security Network and the Diocese of Enugu Security Council, to help in safeguarding the lives and properties of Anglican faithful and other citizens within its territorial jurisdiction,” it stated.