By OLAYINKA LATONA

LAGOS – A member of the LAWNMA Executive Council of The Apostolic Church Nigeria (TACN), Pastor Godwin Akintola, has called on federal and state governments to intensify efforts to address the growing wave of kidnapping and insecurity across the country.

Speaking against the backdrop of rising abductions, including cases involving schoolchildren, Akintola described kidnapping as a crime that has no place in society, stressing that the church and Christians across the country stand united in condemning the menace.

“Because of the voiceless, because of the cries of children and especially those who have been abducted and are suffering under this criminal act, we pray that God will intervene and touch the hearts of our leaders and the government to take action,” he said.

The cleric also urged political leaders to embrace responsible leadership and take decisive steps to tackle insecurity, describing the current situation as alarming and worrisome.

Despite the challenges facing the nation, Akintola expressed confidence in Nigeria’s potential, saying the country possesses the resources and capacity to become safer, more stable and prosperous.

According to him, Nigeria has “all it takes to make this land governable, comfortable and secure for lives and property.”

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, he urged politicians to prioritise the welfare of citizens and make security a central part of their campaign agendas.

“As they prepare for elections and pursue their political ambitions ahead of 2027, they should remember the masses. They must ensure that the security of lives and property remains a key part of their agenda,” he said.

Akintola also stressed the need for the church to remain proactive and continue speaking out on issues affecting society.

“The church must ensure that its prophetic voice is heard. It will not help us in Nigeria unless these challenges become a thing of the past,” he added.

He expressed optimism about the country’s future, saying it remains the desire of many Nigerians to see the nation become a place people aspire to visit and a country whose passport commands global respect.