Methodist Bishops Urge Nigerian Government to Address Inflation and Economic Challenges

 The Bishops of the Methodist Church in Nigeria have called on the Federal Government to implement policies aimed at curbing inflation and alleviating economic challenges, warning that failure to address these issues could lead to chaos and anarchy. This plea was made during the 41st annual council meeting of Bishops of the Methodist Church in Nigeria, themed ‘Arise and Build,’ held at Hoares Memorial Methodist Cathedral in Lagos.

In a communique read by the Prelate, Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, the Bishops expressed deep concern over the high rate of unemployment among young people, linking it to various social vices. They urged both the government and parents to take active roles in empowering the youth to prevent issues such as teenage pregnancy, cultism, fraud, exam malpractices, political thuggery, prostitution, drug abuse, and other criminal activities.

"The Council expresses alarm at the high rate of unemployment among young people, which is linked to various social vices," stated Dr. Aba. "We urge governments and parents to take responsibility for empowering their children. The Council is concerned about the rising cases of teenage pregnancy, cultism, fraud, exam malpractices, political thuggery, prostitution, drug abuse, and other criminal activities among youth. We warn that if left unaddressed, these issues may lead to chaos and anarchy in the country, emphasizing the need for immediate action."

Additionally, the Bishops called for urgent measures to tackle the worsening insecurity in the country. They condemned the violent actions of bandits, kidnappers, and armed robbers, and demanded accountability for recent attacks on public institutions. The Bishops urged security agencies to collaborate and find a comprehensive solution to Nigeria’s security challenges.

On the same day, prominent Islamic cleric Imam Muideen Salman urged Nigerian politicians to reduce greed to alleviate the country's hardship. Speaking at the Fidau prayer for Mama Hajarat Akinleye, mother of the Chief of Staff to the Osun Governor, Kazeem Akinleye, held at the Osun NYSC camp in Ede, Imam Salman emphasized the importance of service over selfishness among political leaders.

"It is important as politicians to prioritize the welfare of the masses on whose shoulders you ride to power. These masses are suffering because of politicians’ greed. To avoid the wrath of God, you must reduce your greed and selfishness to make life liveable for the poor," said Imam Salman.

The cleric reminded politicians that their authority is temporary and that they will be held accountable for their actions both after leaving office and on the day of judgment.

"You must all recognize that political authority is temporary and you will account for every action after office and on the day of judgment," he added.

These calls from religious leaders highlight the urgent need for comprehensive and effective measures to address the economic and security challenges facing Nigeria.