A cleric, Apostle (Dr.) Benjamin Okon, has criticised the reported recruitment of so-called repentant bandits and Boko Haram members into the Nigerian Army, describing it as a dangerous move that could worsen insecurity in the country.

Okon, who is the Deputy Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Territory, and Eket Field Superintendent of The Apostolic Church Nigeria, made the remarks while speaking with The Guardian at the close of the 44th Eket Major Convention themed “Crucified with Christ” (Galatians 2:20), held at the Eket Field Headquarters.

He called on the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently sanitise the nation’s security agencies by identifying and removing personnel allegedly collaborating with bandits and other criminal elements.

According to him, “the worst thing that has happened to the nation’s security architecture is the recruitment of so-called repentant bandits into the Nigerian Army.”

The cleric also expressed concern over what he described as continued killings of Christians in parts of the country, noting that the trend remains troubling.

Despite his concerns, Okon emphasised the need for unity, love and forgiveness among Nigerians, urging citizens to embrace values exemplified by Jesus Christ as a pathway to peace and national cohesion.

He encouraged Christians to remain steadfast in prayers for the country and to support the emergence of selfless and committed leaders, particularly as future elections approach.

Okon also urged Nigerians to be more discerning in their choice of leaders, stressing the need to elect individuals who prioritise the collective interest.

Highlighting the church’s contributions to development, he disclosed that The Apostolic Church Nigeria, Eket Field, has trained youths in various skills acquisition programmes, including oil and gas training, as part of efforts to reduce unemployment.

He added that the church remains committed to praying for peace, the nation’s leadership and the well-being of citizens, noting that it will not relent in its efforts.