Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
The Southern Conference of the United Methodist Church UMC have express concerned on the current state of insecurity in the Country.
The Southern Conference disclosed this in a communique at the end of the 37th Annual conference held in UMC No 1, Zing, Taraba State.
“The security situation in this country is so alarming to the extent that even the security experts have noticed the need for everyone to prepare to defend his or herself. The porous nature of our security agents on defending the armless citizens of this country is worrisome”.
” Presently, the security threat has escalate from Boko Haram to Fulani herdsmen attack, kidnnaping, Armed banditry and more in every Zone of the Country”.
“We the Southern Conference of UMC call on people responsible for protecting and maintaining the safety of lives and properties of Citizens should rise up to the challenge, as the primary purpose of government is security and welfare of the Citizens”
The communique also call on government at all levels to intensify efforts in making sure that all necessary ways are followed to stop the scourge the menace of drug abuse in the country.
It rejected the proposed marriage certificate charges by the Federal Government on Churches.
” Tax or revenue generation on Church marriages, couples are advocating for easy marriage, our government is busy formulating law that will compel all Churches and Christian Marriages to some stipulated amount to be paid to government coffers, we reject the proposal in totality”
It further call on the Federal and National Assembly to as a matter of urgency abolish the intention on Hate speech bill, adding that it negates the existing Constitution that gives every citizen right to speak freely on National issues and right to criticize any policy or program that cannot promote the unity of the Nation.
“Therefore, the bill should be withdrawn as it infringes on the natural and Constitutional rights of Citizens”
The communique also call on the state government to offset the salaries of local governments.
“The state government should try and offset the outstanding local governments, Teachers salaries and accumulated pension and gratuity arrears of State and Local Government staff”
In his remarks, Governor Darius Dickson Ishaku, represented by the Chief of staff, government house, Barr. Istifanus Gbana urged the delegates to make use of the lessons learned during the conference adding that the present administration has resolve to support the church.
On his part, the Director Connectional Ministries, Rev. Micah Dopah, express appreciation to the governor for identifying with the UMC pledging the conference support to the Governor.
He requested for the reopening of the Jalingo Cathedral to allow members commence activities there.
Highlight of the conference with the theme: Where is your Faith” were Songs, Creation of additional charges bringing the total to three hundred and twenty nine, and thirty districts, postings and transfer of clergymen to districts amongst others.
Nasarawa Reporters 