Bishop Odedeji Appreciates Corps Members' Rescue, Demands Enhanced National Security

The Anglican Diocese of Lagos West's Bishop, Rt. Rev. James Olusola Odedeji, has expressed profound gratitude for the safe return of prospective National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members who were recently abducted. However, the cleric lamented that despite this positive development, a pervasive sense of fear continues to grip Nigerians due to the government's perceived failure to adequately safeguard lives and property across the nation.

The twenty prospective corps members were seized by kidn*ppers on October 1 along the Owerri-Onitsha Road in Imo State. They were en route from Ibadan to their respective orientation camps in Abia and Akwa Ibom states when the unfortunate incident occurred. Police authorities confirmed their rescue on Wednesday, October 7. Bishop Odedeji made these remarks on Friday, October 9, following the dedication service of St. Andrew’s Anglican Church in Ofin, Ikorodu.

Addressing the congregation, Bishop Odedeji stated, "The life of every Nigerian matters… it’s sad that we are still not making headway when it comes to the security of lives. There is fear everywhere, and Nigerians are not happy that they cannot move freely in their country." He emphasized the deep concern over the persistent insecurity challenges.

He further acknowledged the divine intervention in the corps members' release, saying, "But then, we still have cause to thank God for the release of the corps members. We have had cases in the past where ransoms were collected, yet the kidn*ppers still went ahead to kill their victims. We are praying that God will touch the hearts of these wicked people and cause them to repent."

Beyond security, the Bishop also used the platform to appeal to the government to prioritize the welfare of its citizens. He highlighted the economic hardships faced by many, urging for more responsive governance.

"People are hungry. The purchasing power of the average Nigerian is weak. We want the government to be more responsive to the plight of the people. We cannot continue like this as a nation," Odedeji asserted. He added, "As church leaders, we see people on a daily basis who are in pain and financial distress. The average Nigerian simply wants an environment that enhances their livelihood. They are not asking for too much."

The newly commissioned parish in Ofin, Ikorodu, represents part of the Anglican Church's commitment to spreading the Christian message within the community. During the dedication service, Bishop Odedeji urged the faithful to maintain their focus on their spiritual mission.

"We have been saved to save others. We should not lose focus. Our goal and desire should be to do the will of the Master. God has called us to go into the world and preach the Good News," he counselled. He specifically charged the vicar of the parish, Rev. Olumuyiwa Ogunsanya, and his wife, Olusola Ogunsanya, to remain steadfast and devoted to the teachings of Christ. "The dedication of this parish is a call to be more committed to the task of evangelism. This is a time to renew your dedication and trust God for more of His grace to do His bidding," he stressed.

The event saw a significant turnout of clergy members, church officials, and lay faithful from across the diocese. A notable moment during the service was the elevation of Rev. Olumuyiwa Ogunsanya to the esteemed rank of Canon within the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), a development warmly celebrated by parishioners and attendees alike.