The Secretary General of the Anglican Communion, Dr Josiah Idowu-Fearon, has decried the “worrisome” levels of insecurity in parts of Nigeria’s Kaduna State. Dr Idowu-Fearon, in his role as Chairman of the Kaduna State Peace Commission, spoke to reporters this week to discuss the Commission’s latest push for peace in the region.

“The challenges of insecurity in many parts of the state are quite worrisome”, he said. “This is most prevalent in Birnin Gwari council as well as many parts of Chikun, Giwa, Igabi, Kachia, Kajuru, Kagarko and Kauru councils.

“We appeal to the people of the state, as well as the security agencies to join hands to address this unfortunate situation of armed robbery, raiding of villages, kidnapping, rustling of cattle and other forms of rural crimes.”

During the press briefing, Dr Idowu-Fearon told journalists that the Commission was in talks with State Governor Mallam Nasir El-Rufai about the release of Adara Community leaders, who are being held in detention.

“I want to cease this opportunity to tell our brothers and sisters in the community that at least we have spoken with his Excellency. We believe that the police will quickly present the case, so that his Excellency will intervene.”

He welcomed the commitment by residents in the area, as well as local government and community groups, to work for peace. “The Kaduna State Peace Commission has assured the communities of its commitment to support them in the process, until lasting peace is attained,” he said.