No security, no election, cleric warns Nigerian leaders

…Borno Christian leaders demand end to insecurity, abduction

Isah El-Buba, the General Overseer of El-Buba Outreach Ministries International (EBOMI), has declared that security must take precedence over politics and elections, warning that Nigeria cannot afford to conduct elections while citizens continue to live under the threat of insecurity.

Speaking in Jos during the Black Sunday observance declared by the Christian Association of Nigeria, El-Buba lamented the persistent killings, kidnappings and displacement of communities across the country, describing the situation as a national tragedyIsah El-Buba, the General Overseer of El-Buba Outreach Ministries International (EBOMI), has declared that security must take precedence over politics and elections, warning that Nigeria cannot afford to conduct elections while citizens continue to live under the threat of insecurity. requiring urgent intervention.

“We gather on the Black Sunday declared by CAN in response to the tragic events unfolding across our country—the continuous loss of lives and the killing of innocent citizens. Even now, many of our sons and daughters remain in captivity in the forests and hideouts of criminal elements.

“As we mark June 12 and reflect on our democratic journey, we are reminded that democracy is not merely the right to vote. Democracy must guarantee the security of lives and property, justice for all, equal opportunities for every Nigerian, and hope for future generations.

“As a nation, our immediate priority must be security. Before politics, before elections, before personal interests, we must secure the lives of Nigerians. That is why we say: No security, no election,” he declared.

The cleric noted that insecurity had continued to affect Nigerians irrespective of religion, ethnicity or social status, stressing that every citizen deserves protection and every community deserves peace.

He called on governments at all levels and security agencies to intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks, secure vulnerable communities and restore public confidence, while urging Nigerians to embrace a national moral reawakening.

Similarly, Christian leaders in Borno State, on Sunday, expressed deep concern over persistent abductions and the alarming rise in kidnapping cases across the State and Nigeria as a whole, urging the Federal Government to accelerate efforts to eliminate this menace.

The Christian community announced a nationwide Black Sunday in honour of victims of insecurity throughout the country, describing the situation as a national tragedy that has devastated numerous families through violence, terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry.

In a message to Christians, Daniel Okoh, CAN President, Archbishop, said the observance aimed to mourn men, women, children, clergy, farmers, students, and entire communities affected by the worsening security crisis.

Speaking shortly after the procession called “Black Sunday” in Maiduguri, Joshua Akeredolu, the Secretary of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Borno State chapter, stated that the gathering was in accordance with directives from the national body of the Association.

According to him, insecurity in Nigeria is becoming increasingly frightening, and urgent, decisive action is needed to protect citizens regardless of their faith, religion, or background.

He said, “Today’s procession is in adherence to the call by the national leadership of CAN, headed by Bishop Daniel, where he urged all believers to gather today and pray against the issue of insecurity in the nation.

“Today is tagged as a Black Sunday for all believers within the nation to pray specifically for those caught in the den of kidnappers and to pray against the insecurity we face as a nation. Also, to pray for our leaders that God should give them direction and focus to end this within the nation.”

He highlighted that many Christian faithful, including pastors, had been kidnapped and murdered by terrorist groups in the State.