Ahead of the 2027 presidential and general elections, former President Goodluck Jonathan has said that what Nigeria as a country requires amidst the challenges is focused leadership.

Speaking on the nature of insecurity with massive killing and wanton destruction of property, Jonathan, who lamented that there was no longer morality among some persons in the land, said that Nigerians have accepted killings as normal with insecurity, killings and violence in Nigeria, warning that the country is gradually losing its moral values and sense of humanity.

Speaking on Saturday at the first session of the 13th Synod of the Anglican Diocese of Abuja held at St James Anglican Church, Asokoro, with the theme “The Priesthood of All Believers: Equipping God’s People for the Work of Ministry,” Jonathan called for national reflection, spiritual renewal and responsible leadership amid the country’s worsening social and security challenges.

The former President, who noted that many Nigerians have become desensitised to bloodshed and destruction, unlike in the past when tragic incidents provoked national outrage and collective grief, 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 normalise 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.”

Jonathan, who emphasised that the Church remains crucial in shaping society and upholding moral standards, urged religious leaders to continue speaking the truth and defending righteousness.

The former President, who warned about the growing influence of negative values through technology and modern information systems, saying many harmful behaviours are now glorified in society, said, “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.