Anglican Bishop calls on government to arm vigilantes, says insecurity is becoming unbearable

The Bishop of the Anglican Missionary Diocese of Oyo South, Rt. Rev. Dr. Olufemi Familoni, has called on the Federal Government to equip local vigilante groups with sophisticated weapons to help tackle the worsening security situation across the country. The cleric made the call on Sunday shortly after an ordination service for deacons, canons, archdeacons and a sub-dean in the diocese. Speaking on the growing cases of banditry, kidnapping and killings, Bishop Familoni said local security outfits such as Amotekun have shown they can play a major role in combating crime and should be given more support, training and modern equipment. According to him, reports have shown that Amotekun has helped reduce incidents of banditry in parts of the South-West, adding that local vigilante groups should be empowered to confront criminals hiding in forests and remote areas. “The killings in Nigeria are becoming unbearable. We cannot continue like this as a nation. Our military appears overstretched, and it is time to encourage local security groups to complement the efforts of conventional security agencies,” he said. The bishop, however, commended the recent efforts of the police and the military, noting that security agencies have demonstrated bravery in several operations. He urged the government to provide them with more resources and support to strengthen the fight against insecurity. Familoni also expressed hope that the government is working behind the scenes to secure the release of the kidnapped students and teachers from Oyo State. “We are praying and hoping for the safe rescue of our children and teachers. The government must not relent in its efforts. There must be the political will needed to end this menace,” he added. He further warned Nigerians against politicising security issues, stressing that human lives should never be treated as political tools. “Human lives are too precious to be reduced to politics. Security agencies must be empowered and fully supported to combat this challenge,” he said.