**Anglican Bishop of Owo Laments Nigeria’s Economic and Security Challenges**
Reverend Stephen Fagbemi, Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Owo in Ondo State, has voiced concerns over the economic hardships plaguing Nigerians, urging President Bola Tinubu to urgently address the nation’s security and economic crises.
Speaking during the third session of the 14th Synod of the Church at St Stephen’s Church in Ipele, Owo local government area, Bishop Fagbemi highlighted the severe impact of the current economic situation on the Nigerian populace.
“The effects of the current economic hardship are real and painful,” Fagbemi noted. “Without urgent and effective measures, Nigeria may witness an uncontrollable rise in crime. The country has become increasingly difficult to live in, prompting many to seek greener pastures abroad, often finding themselves in equally challenging situations.”
Fagbemi attributed the economic downturn to the sudden removal of the petroleum subsidy and the devaluation and instability of the foreign exchange, which have exacerbated the hardship faced by Nigerians over the past year. “Inflation is nearly out of control, and prices of goods and commodities have risen astronomically, making it hard for people to feed their families. Only a few wealthy individuals can claim to be comfortable at the moment,” he said.
The bishop called for more robust efforts to diversify the economy and address the high unemployment rate, which leaves many graduates without jobs or means of livelihood. “This makes the future look bleak and hopeless for many,” he added.
Despite the economic struggles, Fagbemi pointed out that Nigeria continues to borrow, while the political class remains unaffected, enjoying large monthly salaries that disregard the plight of the electorate. “This is a shameless inconsideration of the voters’ hardships,” he concluded.
Vanguard