Anglican Bishop, Fagbemi, Tells President Tinubu: “There’s Worsening Economic Hardship, Rising Insecurity In Nigeria”

By Ayodele Oni

Again, another high profile Cleric, Bishop of Owo, Anglican Diocese, His Lordship, the Rt. Rev. Stephen Fagbemi, has expressed worries over Nigeria’s worsening economic hardship, rising insecurity and the declining standard of living.

The Cleric, has, therefore, called on governments at all levels to take urgent steps to restore hope and improve the welfare of citizens.

Bishop Fagbemi expressed his worries in his charge at the Second Session of the 15th Synod of the Diocese  held at St. Paul’s Church, Imoru, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State.

He pointed out that Nigerians are facing enormous economic challenges, with the cost of living remaining beyond the reach of many families.

The Bishop noted that 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.

“Many citizens now resort to traditional herbs and other unconventional treatments because hospital services are beyond their reach, a development he described as dangerous”.

Bishop Fagbemi lamented the absence of adequate support for pregnant women and families grappling with the economic situation.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Bishop Fagbemi urged Nigerians to avoid making hasty political decisions driven by frustration.

Instead, he called on citizens to pray for the present administration to succeed in addressing the country’s economic and governance challenges.

On insecurity, Bishop Fagbemi described the situation as alarming, saying fear of kidnapping and violent attacks has made travelling by road increasingly unsafe across the country.

He expressed concern over the abduction of traditional rulers, security personnel and innocent citizens, citing the recent kidnapping of school teachers and pupils in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State as an example of the country’s security challenges.

While the victims have since regained their freedom, the Bishop said the incident underscored the urgent need for government to strengthen security measures and prevent future occurrences.

Bishop Fagbemi called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on insecurity and adopt more proactive measures to combat criminality.

He advocated wider consultations with security experts, local security outfits, hunters and international partners, while recommending the deployment of drones and helicopters to strengthen surveillance and security operations nationwide.

The Bishop warned that insecurity was already affecting farming, commerce and social activities, as many people now avoid travelling or attending public gatherings for fear of attacks.