From Taiye Joseph, Illorin
The Archbishop of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Kwara Province, Most Reverend Israel Amoo, has called on the Federal Government to urgently address Nigeria’s worsening economic crisis, which he says is driving crime, poverty, and social vices such as drug abuse, cultism, and terrorism.
Speaking at the Provincial Council of Bishops meeting in Ilorin, Archbishop Amoo, expressed deep concern over the harsh economic realities in the country, which he noted were fueling unrest and a range of societal ills.
“The present harsh economic reality in Nigeria today is having a deep toll on society and fueling crimes, poverty, drug abuse, cultism, kidnapping, poor performance in our schools, inequality, terrorism, and corruption,” Amoo said.
The Archbishop referenced recent nationwide protests, attributing them to growing public frustration over poor governance. “No wonder, Nigerians in their millions had to protest against bad government recently. There is no doubt that when one is hungry, he is equally angry,” he added.
Archbishop Amoo, also raised concerns about the government’s rehabilitation programs for repentant terrorists, describing them as ineffective.
He argued that despite these efforts, terrorism and insurgency were on the rise.
“The ‘project’ is more of an effort to recycle and encourage terrorists,” he said.
In a scathing critique of the National Assembly, Amoo condemned the lawmakers’ recent purchase of luxury vehicles amid widespread economic hardship.
“The purchase of luxurious cars by National Assembly members at a time like this is totally unacceptable and uncalled for when the majority of our youths are jobless and frustrated. These vehicles bought by the National Assembly Members will be maintained and fueled by the Government of Nigeria,” Amoo stated.
While acknowledging the government’s efforts to promote agriculture and attract foreign investment, the Archbishop warned that without addressing insecurity, the country’s economic progress would be limited.
Archbishop Amoo concluded by urging unity within the church, stating, “You can go fast if you go alone, but you will go farther if you go together. We will go fast and go farther together in Jesus Christ’s name – Amen.”
