The Bishop of Ibadan North Diocese (Anglican Communion), Reverend Williams Aladekugbe, expressed deep concern about the increasing hardships, insecurity, poverty, and unemployment in the country since President Bola Tinubu took office on May 29.
Aladekugbe made these remarks during his sermon at the commendation service for the late governor Rotimi Akeredolu at All Saints Church, Jericho, Ibadan, on Tuesday.
He described Nigerians as frustrated, hungry, and angry, and urged all levels of government to take immediate action to address the rising cost of food, widespread insecurity, criminal activities, and economic challenges.
The Anglican Bishop disagreed with the president’s promise to lower prices of items when he takes office, stating that Nigerians have actually been suffering for the past nine months.
Aladekugbe also expressed confusion over how the government’s economic reforms have caused so much hardship for Nigerians.
The cleric urged the federal government and security agencies to take stronger action to prevent the country from falling further into economic and security problems.
The Nigerian Tribune quoted him as saying: “We sincerely appeal to all tiers of government to intervene in the skyrocketing prices of foodstuffs in our dear country. There’s no point hiding the fact that Nigerians are frustrated, hungry, and angry.
“The hardship, insecurity, poverty, and unemployment in the country are such that no one can pacify anybody. What we are now experiencing is not what the president promised Nigerians.
“The president told us to put our minds to rest that the prices of things will come down. Unfortunately, nine months into the government, everyone is in pain.
“It has been from one trouble to another since May 29, 2023. While we appreciate the fact that the federal government is championing socioeconomic reforms, we would like to say that it has inflicted unparalleled hardship on Nigerians.
“The soaring cost of food has escalated the suffering of Nigerians, and crime has greatly increased. Communities across the nation have fallen victim to criminals, resulting in the loss of ancestral lands, economic calamities, and widespread insecurity.
“We plead with the federal government and security outfits to redouble their efforts.
“We are presently going through a lot and from all indications, it is only God that can assist us. Let us use this period of Lent to draw closer to God in fasting and prayers. May the good Lord deliver us.”
