°°warns against misuse, abuse by politicians
Metropolitan and Primate of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Rev. Henry Ndukuba, has asked the Federal Government and the National Assembly, to reconsider the idea of a State/Community Policing system, as well as the adoption of technology in policing system, as an improved measures to tackle the growing insecurity in Nigeria.
In doing that, he suggested a strong/legal mechanism for checks to avoid misuse and abuse by politicians who might attempt to use them to oppress their political opponents and to also achieve other political gains.
The Anglican Primate, who addressed journalists on the outcome of the recent Standing Committee meeting of the Church, in Abuja, yesterday’, warned of imminent socio-economic crisis in Nigeria as a result of rising cost of living, and challenged the government and economic managers to think out-of-the-box for solutions.
The Standing Committee comprises 145 Archbishops and Bishops, 150 Clergy, and 94 members of the Laity of the Church, in addition to their wives, and several other members as may be selected.
The Primate said: “Nigeria is facing security and socioeconomic challenges largely because of recent removal of fuel subsidy which resulted in high cost of living. Families are in deep pain and threat as a result. The situation is bad that workers’ salaries are not even enough to fuel their cars for one week, not to talk of attending to other basic needs.
“Undoubtedly, the cost of living, generally, has gone beyond the reach of average Nigerian. Hyper-inflation has messed up the value of the currency, thus crashing the purchasing power of Nigerians. It’s time for political leaders to rise up and do the needful to avoid total collapse of the system that could result in anarchy.
“The economy is currently at its lowest ebb since independence with macro-economic indicators moving in discouraging directions. Monetary policies have been inconsistent, non-supportive of economic growth, ineffective and cost-push inflation has been out of control resulting in high food prices. Nigerians are hungry! .
“Government should have a rethink on its penchant for external borrowing, give proper attention to fiscal policies, and diversify its economic base by harnessing our abundant natural resources.”
He added that the church is seriously concerned with the activities of some religious leaders who have compromised in knowledge and truth, thus misleading the people as against the recommendation of the Holy Books.
He said: “The church called the Church to repentance, and also enjoined the faithful to combat all forms of apostasy and its influence on the Church and the society at large; standing out for God alone in this fast changing world. Additionally, religious leaders, irrespective of faith, should quit deceiving the people, but stand on the side of truth.”
The Primate also confirmed that the Church, at the meeting, called for a totally civilian and democratic Constitution made by a sovereign representation of the people, and not the continuous amendment of a military formulated Constitution. “This will reflect the birthing of the government of the people in a new Nigeria.”
He also reminded the judiciary that their image and reputation have been battered and a subject of great concern, hence they should do more to guarantee justice in the country, and try as much as possible to win back their trust and respect from Nigerians.
