By John Dike, Osogbo
The Catholic Bishop of Oyo Diocese, Most Revd Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, has strongly criticised what he described as the silence of Nigerian leaders over the continued killing of innocent citizens in parts of the country, particularly in Jos, Kaduna, and Zamfara states.
He described the pattern of killings, coupled with the inaction of leaders, as deeply troubling, warning that God would not heed leaders who stand by while their people perish senselessly.
The cleric stated this in his 2026 Easter message to the people Nigerian and christians at large
Reflecting on the Christian message of Easter, he noted that Jesus Christ promised life in its fullness (John 10:10) and fulfilled that promise by laying down His life, demonstrating integrity between His words and actions.
He lamented that this stands in sharp contrast to many present-day leaders who make promises but fail to deliver, thereby eroding public trust and confidence.
“Why do we witness elaborate rallies and conventions while innocent citizens are being slaughtered? How has Africa’s most populous nation become so helpless in the face of escalating criminality?” he queried.
The bishop recalled that on Palm Sunday, it was declared that God does not listen to the prayers of warmongers, yet on the same day, innocent Nigerians were reportedly killed in Jos and Kaduna, with similar incidents now occurring in Zamfara State.
According to him, the disturbing pattern of violence and the seeming inaction of authorities raise serious moral concerns, stressing that God would not listen to leaders who watch their citizens die needlessly.
Bishop Badejo described the current situation in Nigeria as a moral crisis, adding that only those devoid of compassion would fail to be outraged by the continuous bloodshed.
He stressed that Easter, which symbolises life and hope, should not be reduced to mere ceremonial greetings by leaders who have failed in their primary responsibility of protecting lives and property.
“Empty greetings and ceremonial words cannot replace the urgent need to secure lives and restore peace,” he said.
The cleric further expressed concern over reports of prior warnings allegedly issued by terrorists, noting that the failure to prevent such attacks raises serious questions about the commitment and effectiveness of security efforts.
He called on Nigerian leaders to take decisive and urgent action, stressing that citizens are tired of promises, condolences, and temporary relief measures.
“The only meaningful Easter message Nigerians expect is the protection of lives and the restoration of peace,” he added.
Bishop Badejo urged leaders to demonstrate clearly their commitment to safeguarding lives, noting that leadership that tolerates preventable deaths is both morally and spiritually deficient.
He concluded by encouraging Christians to remain steadfast in faith, expressing hope that God would ultimately defend the innocent and bring justice to the land.
