Anglican Bishop Condemns Suffering, Calls for Economic Reform and Improved Safety

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The Bishop of Owo Diocese, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Stephen Fagbemi, has called on governments at all levels to take urgent action to improve the welfare of Nigerians.

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The cleric, who expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s worsening economic hardship, rising insecurity and the declining standard of living of the people, said there was a need for drastic action.

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Fagbemi made the call while speaking at the Second Session of the 15th Synod of the Diocese of Owo, held at St. Paul’s Church, Imoru, in Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, on Sunday.

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Bishop Fagbemi said Nigerians were facing enormous economic challenges, with the cost of living remaining beyond the reach of many families.

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According to the cleric, despite rising taxation and economic reforms, many Nigerians still struggle to afford basic necessities, while access to quality healthcare has become increasingly difficult due to high medical costs.

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

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Fagbemi, who described the country’s security situation as alarming, lamented that the fear of kidnapping and violent attacks had made travelling by road increasingly unsafe across the country.

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Recalling the recent kidnapping and subsequent release of school teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, he said the incident underscored the urgent need for the government to strengthen security measures and prevent future occurrences.

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He also expressed concern over the abduction of traditional rulers, security personnel and innocent citizens across the country, saying the situation demanded 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.

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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,” the cleric advised.

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On the forthcoming 2027 general elections, the bishop warned Nigerians against making hasty political decisions driven by frustration, but urged them to pray for the administration of President Bola Tinubu to succeed in addressing the country’s economic and governance challenges.

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