There should be national consensus on how to effectively tackle insecurity – Bishop Kuponu

Revd. Dr. Solomon Kuponu,  Bishop of Ijebu Diocese,  has reiterated that there should be national consensus on how to effectively tackle insecurity in the country .

Kuponu stated this in his charge at the 1st session of the 6th Synod held at the St. Pauls Church, Ago Iwoye. 

The Bishop explained that , as recommended by the Nigeria Governor’s Forum,  criminals must be swiftly apprehended and prosecuted, saying that criminals had no ethnic identity. 

He added that the practice of blanket amnesty and compensation for criminals should stop,  adding that only a failed state pacifies criminals and terrorists with cash and amnesty. 

Kuponu opined that emphasis should be on protecting and rehabilitating victims of banditry and terrorism.

He said that declaring an emergency as recommended by the Senate without accompanying reform of the security apparatus would not accomplish anything. 

“There must be a total, all out war on criminality. The country should reach out to other countries for help. 

“There should be strong cooperation between the federal and state governments and between states. Military and police action should be driven by intelligence and technology and accompanied by provision of basic social services. 

“The porous borders should be monitored and undesirable aliens apprehended and locked out. A massive mop up of illegal arms should begin. Governors should take full charge of security in their states,” he said. 

The Bishop of Ijebu diocese appealed to Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun to find lasting solution to the issue of insecurity in the state and take measures in bringing back the glory of the state by given maximum security to the citizens.

He added that the decision of Southern Governor’s banning open grazing of cows was a welcome decision and should be enforced.