Address hardship catholic bishops urge Tinubu
The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) has called on President Bola Tinubu to promptly address the nation’s current economic issues to prevent further suffering among Nigerians.
Archbishop Lucius Ugorji, CBCN President and Archbishop of Owerri Diocese, made this appeal on Sunday during his welcome address at the opening session of the 2024 Second Plenary Assembly of the Catholic Bishops at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Auchi, Edo State.
Ugorji also condemned the recent kidnapping of Catholic medical students from the Universities of Maiduguri and Jos in Otukpo, who were traveling to Enugu, though he expressed gratitude for their subsequent release. He praised the security forces and others involved in their rescue but noted that insecurity continues to be a significant challenge.
He highlighted the severe economic difficulties leading to multidimensional poverty and widespread hardship, which prompted youth-led nationwide protests labeled “Endbadgovernance.” While acknowledging the right to peaceful protest, Ugorji expressed concerns that such demonstrations could be exploited by miscreants, and criticized security operatives who allegedly used intimidation to deter protestors.
Despite the challenges, Ugorji noted that the protest proceeded peacefully initially but faced issues, particularly in the north. He condemned the violence by some youths and the reported killing of protestors by security forces. He stressed that as long as poverty, hardship, and corruption persist, the concerns voiced by the youth must be addressed.
Regarding the rising debt burden, the CBCN recommended that the government address financial leakages and increase Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to manage its affairs effectively. They also pointed out that the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the Naira have led to severe inflation and widespread poverty.
In his opening Mass for the conference, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Dunia urged elected officials to prioritize the welfare of citizens over personal interests. He encouraged the Catholic faithful in Auchi to view the bishops’ visit as a blessing to the community.
The Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, the church’s highest decision-making body in the country, convenes twice a year to discuss matters of faith and societal issues.
