By Charles Pemu 
At the 15th Synod of the Diocese of Warri, Anglican Communion, held at the Cathedral of St. Andrew, Warri, Bishop Christian Esezi Ide delivered a sobering address titled “Overcoming the Birthright of Christians”, raising urgent concerns over Nigeria’s security, governance, economy, and justice system.
Security and Religious Persecution
Citing the Observatory for Religious Freedom in Africa, Bishop Ide lamented that Nigeria accounted for 90% of Christians killed globally between 2019 and 2023, with 55,910 lives lost and over 21,000 abductions. He condemned the government’s inaction in the face of attacks by terrorists and bandits, urging accountability and stronger security measures to halt the bloodshed.
Call for a New Constitution
The bishop reiterated the call for a new, civilian-drafted constitution, reflecting the interests of Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups. He emphasized the need for true federalism, noting that piecemeal amendments to the 1999 military-imposed constitution cannot heal deep national divisions.
Economic Hardship
Bishop Ide described Nigeria’s economy as unstable, plagued by inflation, foreign debt, and high exchange rates. He acknowledged initiatives like the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) but warned against policy reversals. He urged the government to invest in agriculture, infrastructure, and youth empowerment.
Health Crisis
With life expectancy at just 54 years, the bishop criticized the federal government’s 5.18% budgetary allocation to health—far below the 15% Abuja Declaration target. He expressed concern over USAID’s withdrawal of health funding and called for increased local investment in sustainable healthcare.
Justice and Rule of Law
Bishop Ide emphasized the judiciary’s role as the last hope of the common man, urging the protection of judicial independence. He condemned corruption in the judiciary and called for judges to act with integrity and the fear of God.
Education and Policy Clarity
On education, he urged clarity on the proposed transition from the 9-3-4 to 12-4 system, warning against confusion and policy instability. He emphasized education as a cornerstone of development.
Gender-Based Violence
The bishop decried the alarming rate of gender-based violence in Nigeria, calling for tougher laws and proactive responses from government and the Church to protect women, girls, widows, and orphans.
Commending Delta’s Progress
He commended Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for faithfully implementing the M.O.R.E. Agenda, especially infrastructural projects in Warri and Effurun. He expressed optimism that these developments would stimulate the local economy.
INEC and Redelineation Tensions
On the contentious ward redelineation in Warri Federal Constituency by INEC, Bishop Ide called for peaceful dialogue among the Ijaw, Itsekiri, and Urhobo communities to prevent a repeat of past ethnic conflicts. He reminded stakeholders of shared heritage and intermarriage, urging them to reject violence and work toward unity.