Anglican Synod in Zamfara Urges Faith Amid Insecurity, Rejects Bandit Negotiations

By Adam Muhammad, Gusau

The Anglican Diocese of Gusau has called on Christians to remain steadfast in faith, uphold righteousness, and "look unto Jesus" for strength and guidance amid Nigeria's prevailing security and economic challenges.

The call was made in a communiqué issued at the end of the Second Session of the Ninth Synod of the Diocese, held at St. Stephen's Anglican Church in Gusau from November 28 to 30, 2025. The gathering, under the theme "Looking Unto Jesus" (Hebrews 12:1-2), was presided over by the Bishop of the Diocese, the Rt. Reverend Dr. John Garba Danbinta.

In its statement, the Synod lamented the severe insecurity and banditry plaguing the region, strongly rejecting any negotiations with armed groups. It urged federal and state governments to make security, economic stability, and justice their paramount priorities. The Synod also extended sympathy to Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal and the Gusau Emirate Council on the passing of the former Emir, HRH Dr. Alhaji Ibrahim Bello, while congratulating the new Emir and commending the Governor for visible infrastructural projects.

A specific concern raised was the long-standing demolition of St. Stephen's Anglican Church, Gusau. The Synod appealed to the state government to either grant a building permit for reconstruction or provide fair compensation to the congregation.

The communiqué concluded by encouraging all Christians to remain prayerful, hopeful, and committed to peace. It was jointly signed by Bishop Danbinta; the Diocesan Chancellor, Chief Barr. Dr. J. D. Ephraim; and the Synod Clerical Secretary, Rev. Canon Ezekiel Solomon.

The event was attended by clergy and laity from across the diocese, alongside dignitaries including the Bishop's wife, Mrs. Helen Danbinta, and the Synod Preacher, the Rt. Revd. Dr. Yusuf Ishaya Janfalan, Bishop of Ikara Diocese. Several other bishops from across the Anglican communion sent goodwill messages.