Bishop Ibeabuchi delivers a scathing state of the nation, slams FG on killings, Police extortion, judiciary collapse, and calls for Nnamdi Kanu’s release. Read details inside
… Accuses government of playing politics with bloodshed, demands end to Police extortion and injustice
Umuahia, Nigeria – May 1, 2025 | All Facts Newspaper
In a fiery and deeply emotional “State of the Nation” address, The Rt. Revd Geoffrey Obijuru Ibeabuchi, Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, has delivered a stinging rebuke of Nigeria’s ruling elite, accusing them of being completely disconnected from the plight of the ordinary citizen while overseeing a nation plagued by bloodshed, economic hardship, and moral decay.
The Anglican Bishop condemned the federal government’s failure to address insecurity, the lopsided handling of justice, and the persistent exploitation of Nigerians by security agents. He declared, “It is only in Nigeria that the government claps for itself while citizens suffer in silence.”
He questioned the logic behind the removal of fuel subsidy with no visible relief for citizens, noting the absence of promised CNG buses and economic palliatives. “We were told things would get better. Where is the better life they promised us?” the Bishop asked.
‘Life Has Lost Value in Nigeria’ – Bishop Declares
Bishop Ibeabuchi lamented the spate of killings across the country, especially the recent murder of hunters from the North in Uromi, Edo State, and gruesome attacks in Benue, Plateau, Enugu, Katsina, and Niger states. He criticized the government’s inaction, saying, “Every day we hear of killings but never hear of justice.”
He further described Nigeria as a country where displaced citizens rot in IDP camps while their attackers live freely, unpunished. “What kind of nation protects killers and abandons victims?” he queried.
The Bishop also reignited a national debate on the continued detention of IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, calling on President Bola Tinubu to “not let him die in detention” and urging the judiciary to “do the needful.”
“Releasing Nnamdi Kanu could unmask those behind the terror in the Southeast. Justice must be equal if this nation must heal.”
Judiciary, Legislature Under Fire
In a scathing critique of the judiciary, Bishop Ibeabuchi warned that Nigerians are rapidly losing faith in court rulings, stating that some judgments “raise serious doubts about integrity and fairness.”
He also lambasted the National Assembly for what he termed “self-serving representation,” questioning whether lawmakers are serving the people or themselves. “Umunna, nkita atala okpukpu anyawara ya n’olu (The dog has eaten the bone under its care),” he said, calling for urgent reforms.
Police and Road Safety Officers Accused of Open Corruption
The Bishop did not spare Nigeria’s security forces, accusing them of turning checkpoints into toll collection points. “What are they checking? They now extort money from drivers and Keke riders daily. This embarrassment must stop,” he said.
Commends Abia Governor Alex Otti’s Leadership
Amid the national criticisms, the Bishop heaped praise on Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, describing his administration as people-focused and development-driven.
From road rehabilitation to the revival of abandoned institutions like Enyimba Hotel and Star Paper Mills, Bishop Ibeabuchi said Otti’s leadership has touched “almost all facets of the state.” He applauded prompt payment of salaries, gratuities, and the recently launched Abia International Airport.
He also lauded plans to recruit more teachers and continue free education in the state, saying, “Whoever refuses to be educated in Abia today cannot blame the government.”
Demands to Otti: Keep Your Promises
The Diocese reminded Governor Otti of specific campaign promises:
Complete the diocesan cathedral project.
Return schools to mission owners.
Provide more youth employment and affordable fertilizer for farmers.
Be wary of sycophants who could derail his government.
The Bishop assured the Governor of the Church’s prayers and partnership.
Applauds Rep. Obinna Aguocha’s Representation
The Synod also acknowledged the people-oriented leadership of Rt. Hon. Obinna Aguocha, Member representing Umuahia North, South, and Ikwuano Federal Constituency, urging him to remain humble, God-fearing, and supportive of the Governor.
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