In a sobering address during the 2nd Session of the 13th Synod of the Diocese of Awka, Anglican Communion, Most Rev. Alexander Ibezim, the Archbishop of the Province of the Niger and Bishop of the Diocese of Awka, Anglican Communion, issued a stark warning about Nigeria’s current trajectory, declaring that the nation is rapidly descending towards economic and political “perdition.”
Highlighting poverty and hunger as major threats to Nigeria’s peace and unity, Archbishop Ibezim called upon authorities to intensify efforts in alleviating the economic and security challenges faced by the populace. Despite the Federal Government’s endeavors, he lamented that the prices of essential commodities continued to soar, exacerbating the plight of ordinary Nigerians.
Expressing dissatisfaction with the economic policies of the administration led by President Bola Tinubu, Archbishop Ibezim urged the President to overhaul these policies and declare a state of emergency on poverty and hunger in the country. He emphasized the urgency of addressing the weakening naira, forex exchange volatility, and rising costs of fuel, cooking gas, kerosene, and electricity tariffs.
“The pain faced by Nigerians is compounded by the weakening naira due to the forex exchange situation and increases in pump price of fuel, cooking gas, kerosene, and electricity tariff,” Archbishop Ibezim remarked, urging decisive action from the leadership to avert the looming danger.
Reflecting on the broader implications of injustice within society, the Archbishop emphasized the need for equitable governance, stating that injustice hampers national progress and cannot be subdued by force alone.
Commending the Prof. Charles Soludo-led government in Anambra State for its developmental strides, particularly in the education sector, Archbishop Ibezim urged the governor to remain steadfast in fulfilling campaign promises and address challenges such as cultism and touting in certain areas of the state.
Echoing Archbishop Ibezim’s sentiments, Mr. Somtochukwu Udeze, Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, underscored the pivotal role of the church in contemporary Nigeria, urging church leaders to prioritize children’s ministry as a means of fostering noble character from an early age.