Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Saturday bemoaned what he described as the growing normalization of terrorism, insecurity, killings, and violence in Nigeria, warning that the country is gradually losing its moral values and sense of humanity.
Jonathan addressed the Anglican Diocese of Abuja’s inaugural session of the 13th Synod in Abuja.
Jonathan’s goodwill message urged national introspection, spiritual rejuvenation, and responsible leadership in the face of the country’s mounting social and security issues.
According to him, many Nigerians have grown numb to killing and destruction, when in the past, sad situations elicited national anger and communal grief.
He said, “As someone who has spent many years in public life and politics, I must confess that moments like this provide an opportunity for sober reflection on the state of our society.
“When we look around today, particularly at the challenges confronting our country, it is easy to become discouraged. Violence, insecurity, moral decline, and the loss of human values have become deeply troubling realities.
“What is even more painful is how society sometimes appears to normalize these tragedies as though they are ordinary occurrences. In times past, such incidents would shake the conscience of the nation.
“Today, people are killed, communities are destroyed, and life seems to continue as though nothing has happened. This ought not to be so. It is a reminder that society desperately needs moral direction, spiritual guidance, and a restoration of values.”
The former president emphasized that the Church is still important in influencing society and sustaining moral norms, asking religious leaders to continue speaking the truth and defending morality.
He also cautioned against the growing influence of negative ideals via technology and modern information systems, claiming that many destructive behaviors are now praised in society.
“That is why the role of the Church remains indispensable. The Church must continue to stand as the conscience of society, speaking truth, defending righteousness, and shaping lives through faith and godly example.
“The influence of modern technology and information systems, though beneficial in many ways, has also contributed to the spread of negative values, where wrong is sometimes celebrated more than good. This is not the future we should desire for our children and generations yet unborn,” he added.
“Permit me to also say that leadership matters greatly in moments like this. Society progresses when men and women of integrity, courage, and vision stand in the right places and speak the truth. We must continue to pray for our leaders, encourage one another, and work collectively for peace, justice, and national renewal,” Jonathan said.
Former primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Peter Akinola, also spoke, describing the conference as both symbolic and strategic, especially in light of the global Anglican Communion’s “revisionist agenda.”
According to Akinola, the event left enduring memories and had an impact on the Anglican community years later.
He also expressed delight that foreign delegates who attended the conference had a positive view of Nigeria, despite what he termed as disparaging portrayals in the world media.
“It is evident that our foreign delegates departed with a far better impression of Nigeria, contrary to the negative narratives often projected by sections of the foreign media about our beloved nation.
“I remain proud of this achievement and urge you all to keep up the good fight of faith,” he stated.
