The Methodist Church Nigeria has issued a stark warning to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, asserting that escalating insecurity across the nation is intensifying economic hardship and jeopardizing the wellbeing of Nigerian citizens. In a strongly worded communiqué, the church emphasized that the rampant kidnapping and killings in various regions are having severe repercussions on food security and the fundamental sanctity of human life.
Synod's Grave Concerns and Direct Appeal
This urgent message was delivered at the conclusion of the 64th Annual Synod of the Diocese of Ibadan, held at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Trinity, Onireke in Ibadan, Oyo State. The communiqué, formally signed by Synod Secretary Very Rev. Davidson Olumide Aluko and Diocesan Lay President Sis. Olasumbo Adeola Anifowose, expressed profound concern over the persistent violence, particularly highlighting the dire situations in Benue State and Plateau State.
The Synod pointed out that insecurity is severely undermining agricultural activities, leading to increased food scarcity and exacerbating the economic struggles faced by many Nigerians. It called on the Federal Government to immediately strengthen security measures to protect lives and property, stressing that without such action, the nation's stability and prosperity are at risk.
Broader Calls for Governance and Economic Reforms
While acknowledging some governmental efforts to tackle these challenges, the Methodist Church urged authorities to prioritize job creation, improve access to essential services like healthcare and education, and ensure greater transparency and accountability in governance. The Synod also addressed the Federal Government's new tax reforms, aimed at promoting social cohesion and economic stability.
It recommended that these reforms be implemented with fairness and sensitivity to citizens' plight, cautioning that taxes should not be enforced while corruption continues to thrive. The church stressed that all policies must be designed to alleviate the suffering of the masses, rather than adding to their burdens.
This appeal from the Methodist Synod underscores a growing consensus among civil society groups that Nigeria's security and economic crises are deeply intertwined, requiring comprehensive and decisive leadership from President Tinubu's administration to restore safety and foster sustainable development.
