On April 28, the Nigerian Senate passed a bill that would impose jail terms of at least 15 years on anyone who pays a ransom to free a hostage kidnapped by bandits and extremist groups. Open Doors’ field leaders have expressed critical concern over this new bill.
With few resources, sometimes paying a ransom is the only way to get a loved one back. Paired with that, the government seems powerless against the rising violence in their own country, leaving their citizens vulnerable and forced to take matters into their own hands.
Lord, we know the power of government, and we know the difference between a government that helps instead of hinders. We ask You inspire and move inside those in power in Nigeria, that they would not sit idly by as attacks and violence increase, but would instead move and pass legislation to protect their people—all people. We know You are above all earthly kings; we ask You to move in Your earthly servants, that they would move swiftly in protecting those most vulnerable. Amen.
With few resources, sometimes paying a ransom is the only way to get a loved one back. Paired with that, the government seems powerless against the rising violence in their own country, leaving their citizens vulnerable and forced to take matters into their own hands.
Lord, we know the power of government, and we know the difference between a government that helps instead of hinders. We ask You inspire and move inside those in power in Nigeria, that they would not sit idly by as attacks and violence increase, but would instead move and pass legislation to protect their people—all people. We know You are above all earthly kings; we ask You to move in Your earthly servants, that they would move swiftly in protecting those most vulnerable. Amen.
