The Bishop of Owo Diocese, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Rt. Rev. Stephen Fagbemi, has expressed concern over the worsening economic hardship in the country, saying the soaring cost of living and growing insecurity have left many Nigerians struggling to survive.

Bishop Fagbemi, who stated this while delivering his Charge at the Second Session of the 15th Synod of the Diocese of Owo held at St. Paul’s Church, Imoru, in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, urged the Federal Government and state governments to take urgent steps to improve citizens’ welfare, restore public confidence and tackle the nation’s security challenges before they worsen.

The cleric noted that despite rising taxation and economic reforms, millions of Nigerians still could not afford basic necessities, while the high cost of healthcare had placed medical treatment beyond the reach of many families.

According to him, the situation has forced many citizens to rely on traditional herbs and other unconventional remedies because they can no longer afford hospital care.

He also lamented the absence of adequate support for pregnant women and other vulnerable groups battling the harsh economic realities.

On insecurity, the bishop described the situation as alarming, noting that fear of kidnapping and violent attacks had made road travel increasingly unsafe across the country.

He cited the recent abduction of teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State as evidence that criminal activities remained a serious threat to lives and livelihoods, despite the eventual release of the victims.

Fagbemi urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on insecurity and adopt more proactive measures to combat criminality through improved intelligence gathering, wider collaboration with security experts, local security outfits, hunters and international partners.

He also recommended the deployment of drones and helicopters to strengthen surveillance and security operations, warning that insecurity was already taking a toll on farming, commerce and other socio-economic activities.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the Anglican bishop cautioned Nigerians against making political decisions out of frustration, urging them instead to pray for the present administration to overcome the country’s economic and governance challenges.

He also faulted the conduct of political party primaries held in May, alleging manipulation of votes and imposition of candidates, which he said undermined internal democracy.

The cleric condemned the violence that trailed recent party congresses and primary elections in Ondo State, warning that unless politicians embraced peaceful conduct and respected democratic principles, the 2027 general elections could be imperilled.

While congratulating Ondo State on its 50th anniversary, Bishop Fagbemi commended Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for recruiting 500 Amotekun Corps personnel, employing 1,000 health workers, paying outstanding gratuities to pensioners and implementing the new minimum wage.

He, however, urged the governor to accelerate the completion of abandoned road projects and other critical infrastructure projects inherited from previous administrations to further improve the welfare of the people. (Saturday Tribune)

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