UNIAPEB leaders decry insecurity, media silence on Christian killings
Senior clerics of the United International Association of Pentecostal Bishops (UNIAPEB) have raised concerns over Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, particularly attacks on Christians in parts of the country, while calling for
Senior clerics of the United International Association of Pentecostal Bishops (UNIAPEB) have raised concerns over Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, particularly attacks on Christians in parts of the country, while calling for urgent national action and more responsible media reporting.
The concerns were expressed during the College’s Annual Retreat held at Monarch University.
The three-day gathering, themed ‘Replenishing the Flock,’ and anchored on Jeremiah 31:25, was held from February 24 to 26 in Ogun State.
Speaking with journalists, the Vice President (Global) of UNIAPEB, Bishop Tom Samson, reacted to reports in some quarters describing Nigeria as one of the deadliest places in the world for Christians.
According to him, violent attacks and atrocities, especially in parts of Northern Nigeria, were for years not adequately brought to public attention.
“A lot of terrible things were happening in the northern part of the country, and we in the South, particularly in Lagos, did not fully grasp the magnitude,” he said.
“If information is not made public, people will not understand the gravity of the situation.”
Read Also: Senate rejects fresh amendment to 2026 Electoral Act, tells opposition to follow due process
He noted that social media has recently amplified reports and visual evidence of such incidents.
“It is only of late, thank God for social media, that these realities have become glaring. Over the years, the information was not adequately promoted,” Samson added.
While acknowledging incidents of persecution, killings and destruction of churches, he expressed optimism that recent efforts by the Federal Government and international attention would yield results.
“Thank God the government has braced up. America has also shown concern. Let us keep the tempo. This is the only nation we have. We must all rise up and ensure that this stops,” he declared.
Also speaking, the Presiding Bishop of Maranatha Chapel International and Public Relations Officer of UNIAPEB, Bishop Samuel Alawode, cautioned against what he described as exaggerated claims that Nigeria is the “deadliest country” for Christians.
“Nigeria is deadly for Christians in some regions, but not the deadliest. That is an exaggeration. There are countries where persecution is more severe and systemic,” he said.
However, Alawode admitted that attacks on Christians in certain parts of Nigeria are alarming.
“The attacks are more prevalent in some regions, and that is very pathetic. For years, these incidents were not properly reported. It was mainly Christian organisations that highlighted them, while mainstream media paid less attention,” he stated.
According to him, the situation has now reached a point where the reality of insecurity can no longer be ignored.
Earlier, UNIAPEB President, Archbishop Joseph Ojo, said tackling insecurity requires structural reforms, particularly within the security architecture.
“Some of these crimes happen because of connivance within the system. If we truly want lasting peace, the security framework, especially the police, must be thoroughly examined,” he said.
Ojo explained that UNIAPEB was formed to promote accountability, doctrinal integrity and unity among Pentecostal bishops.
“We saw the need for bishops to come together under a body that ensures we walk in unity and remain committed to the doctrine of Christ. Many ministries operate without oversight. This college provides that structure,” he said, clarifying that the association is independent and not affiliated with any previous bishops’ college.
On the retreat’s theme, the Archbishop said Nigeria’s present challenges demand spiritual renewal and divine intervention.
“The state of the nation calls for replenishment. There is a need for a fresh move of God. Even the blind can see that Nigeria needs renewal,” he said.
He urged pastors to continually re-evaluate their ministries.
“No matter how anointed we are, none of us knows it all. We must re-examine ourselves and improve where necessary. When we know better, we are expected to achieve better results,” he added.
Deputy President of the College, Bishop Samuel Amo Thomas, said the church remains steadfast in prayer for the nation and committed to preparing members for national transformation.
“We believe that if God directs us rightly, something positive will come out of this situation,” he said.
According to him, the church’s responsibility goes beyond prayer.
“We need a national change — not only politically, but economically, socially and in every facet of national life. Our people must be educated and positioned to be on the frontline of that change,” he said.
He added that the church continues to support Christians facing hardship and persecution, particularly in troubled regions of northern Nigeria.
