The Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion has strongly condemned the killing of Venerable Edwin Achi from the Diocese of Kaduna, calling for the Federal Government to identify and punish those who sponsor and finance violent attacks across the nation. The church also demanded the immediate release of Achi’s wife and daughter, who remain in captivity following his abduction.
In a statement signed by the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Most Rev’d Henry Ndukuba, the church expressed deep sorrow over Achi’s death after a month-long ordeal, describing it as a tragedy that deeply wounds the nation’s conscience. Archbishop Ndukuba hailed the late cleric as a devoted servant of God, whose life of sacrifice and compassion was abruptly ended amid the escalating insecurity affecting communities throughout Nigeria.
The Primate condemned the violence, stating, “We condemn, in the strongest possible terms, these senseless acts of evil.” He emphasized that such brutality has no place in a society striving for peace and prosperity. The church urged the Federal Government and security agencies to confront the root causes of the violence and to expose the networks that finance these attacks.
Ndukuba insisted that those responsible for supporting the violence must face appropriate consequences, demanding that they be shamed, blacklisted, and severely punished. He called for a concerted effort from the government and international partners to identify and dismantle the criminal networks behind the terror and religious persecution.
In light of the ongoing captivity of Achi’s family members, the church made an emotional appeal for their immediate and unconditional release, urging government authorities to act swiftly. The statement also extended prayers for others still held captive across the country, calling for compassion and a national resolve to address these issues.
The Primate appealed to all levels of government and security agencies to intensify their efforts to dismantle criminal networks and restore security, emphasizing the need to prevent further loss of life. He concluded by praying for comfort for the bereaved family and healing for the nation, asserting that the sacrifice of Venerable Edwin Achi should not be in vain.
