Anglican bishop decries hardship, seeks action on economy, insecurity

Stephen Fagbemi, the Bishop of Owo Diocese in Nigeria, has issued a strong call to action for governments at all levels to urgently improve the welfare of Nigerians. Speaking at the Second Session of the 15th Synod of the Diocese of Owo, Fagbemi expressed deep concern over the country's escalating economic hardship, worsening insecurity, and the declining standard of living.

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Many citizens now resort to traditional herbs and other unconventional treatments because hospital services are beyond their reach. This is a dangerous development.

The cleric noted that despite ongoing taxation and economic reforms, many citizens find it increasingly difficult to afford basic necessities. He pointed out that access to quality healthcare has become prohibitively expensive, forcing many to resort to traditional herbs and unconventional treatments, a development he described as dangerous. The bishop stressed the need for drastic measures to alleviate the suffering of the populace.

Fagbemi also characterized the nation's security situation as alarming. He lamented that the pervasive fear of kidnapping and violent attacks has rendered road travel perilous across the country. The recent kidnapping and release of school teachers and pupils in Oyo State, he said, underscored the urgent need for the government to bolster security measures and prevent future incidents. The abduction of traditional rulers, security personnel, and ordinary citizens nationwide, he added, demands a state of emergency.

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The Federal Government should declare a state of emergency on insecurity and adopt more proactive measures to combat criminality.

To combat the escalating insecurity, Bishop Fagbemi advised the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency and adopt more proactive strategies. He recommended broader consultations with security experts, local security outfits, and international partners, alongside the deployment of drones and helicopters for enhanced surveillance nationwide. Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, the bishop cautioned Nigerians against making hasty political decisions driven by frustration, urging them instead to pray for President Bola Tinubu's administration to succeed in tackling the nation's economic and governance challenges.

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There should be wider consultations with security experts, local security outfits, hunters and international partners, as well as the deployment of drones and helicopters to strengthen surveillance and security operations nationwide.