By GABRIEL O. ELABOR

As the Ordinary of the Anglican Diocese of Esan, I feel it is necessary to address the deteriorating state of security in our beloved Esan land. The recent brutal killing of 16 individuals from the North, accused of crimes such as kidnapping, rape, and theft through jungle justice, is a tragic testament to the breakdown of law and order in our community.

While we condemn this heinous act, we must resist the temptation to quickly blame the community. Instead, we should hold the government accountable for its failure to provide adequate security for the lives and properties of our people. The escalating insecurity in Esan, particularly since the recent elections, indicates that the government has prioritized politics over the welfare and safety of its citizens.

The people of Esan have faced relentless attacks from Fulani herdsmen, resulting in countless lives lost and properties destroyed. The cries of our community for help have fallen on deaf ears, as it seems our leaders are more focused on playing politics with security than on providing meaningful solutions.

A few weeks ago, the Honourable member representing Esan West, Esan Central, and Igueben called on the Federal Government to assist the state in providing security. Unfortunately, his call for assistance was met with silence, politicization, and personal attacks. He was vilified as if he were opposing the Government of Edo State. Today, it is clear that we find ourselves in a perilous situation, just as he described on the floor of the house.

The recent attack on the Ukhun community, which resulted in the loss of one life, is a stark reminder of the dire circumstances we face.

Additionally, the so-called joint security group that came to Esan a few weeks ago failed to address the root causes of insecurity; instead, they ended up killing a young man in Ekpoma town, while criminals roam the forests, attacking and violating our people.

It Is appalling that Fulani herdsmen, who stand accused of serious crimes, are frequently released without consequence, allegedly due to their ability to pay bribes to authorities. This blatant disregard for justice has fostered a culture of impunity, where criminals feel emboldened to commit atrocities without fear of retribution.

As a leader, I am deeply troubled by the lack of accountability and the selective application of justice. Why is it that the killing of 16 individuals from the North has sparked widespread outrage, while the killings, rapes, and displacements of our people have been met with silence and inaction?

We demand that the government take immediate action to address the security concerns in Esan. We call for a full-scale investigation into the killings, rapes, and destruction of properties in our community. We seek justice for all, not just for those accused of crimes.

We will not abandon our land and our community to these ghost killers. We will not be silenced or intimidated. We will continue to demand that our leaders prioritize our safety and welfare above all else.

To the government, we say: enough is enough. It is time to take concrete action to address the security concerns in Esan. We will be watching, and we will hold you accountable.

To our Royal Fathers, we advise caution in your dealings with outsiders. We acknowledge that, as Nigerians, it is their constitutional right to live anywhere in the country. However, we implore you to prioritize the safety and welfare of your people. One prized cow you receive from these killers cannot replace the lives of your people who are being harmed by those you have allowed onto our lands. Our killers are now living among us, and we must remain vigilant.

We pray for the government and people of Esan, we pray to God to grant us wisdom, courage, and strength to navigate the challenges we face.

We pray for the victims of the recent attacks, that God may comfort their families and loved ones. We pray for the perpetrators, that they may repent and turn away from their evil ways.

We also pray for our leaders, that they may prioritize the welfare and safety of our people above all else. We hope they work tirelessly to address the security concerns in Esan, guided by justice, equity, and compassion.

We pray for the people of Esan, that we may stand together in unity and solidarity, supporting one another during these difficult times.

May God’s peace, which surpasses all understanding, be our guide and comfort. May God’s love, stronger than death, be our strength and inspiration;

In the name of God the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit.

Amen.

Pax Tecum.

•Gabriel O. Elabor, OSA, is Ordinary of the Anglican Diocese of Esan.