Catholic Bishops, led by Most Rev. Lucius Ugorji, urged President Bola Tinubu to reassess his economic policies, stating they have worsened Nigeria's socio-economic issues. The Bishops advocated for a return to a regional system of government, warning that the current approach is unsustainable and has exacerbated the nation's challenges.
The President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, has called on President Bola Tinubu to reassess his economic policies, citing growing public discontent. Addressing the 2024 Second Plenary Assembly of the CBCN in Auchi, Edo State, Archbishop Ugorji, who is also the Archbishop of Owerri, expressed concern that the current economic measures are causing more harm than good to Nigerians.
He argued that the nation's socio-economic challenges extend beyond what economic reforms can address, no matter how well-conceived or implemented. Archbishop Ugorji suggested that a return to a regional system of government might better address issues such as corruption and inefficiency, which are exacerbated by the current federal structure.
While acknowledging some of President Tinubu's recent achievements, the Archbishop emphasized that the overall situation in Nigeria remains dire. He pointed to the country's increasing debt, including a $2.25 billion loan from the World Bank, which has raised Nigeria's total debt to $93.7 billion. Additionally, he highlighted the challenges of multiple taxation, widespread hunger, and insecurity, which are contributing to the nation's hardship.
Earlier, Bishop Gabriel Dunia of Auchi Diocese emphasized the importance of humility and service among leaders. He also encouraged continued prayer and fasting as a way to seek divine intervention for the country's numerous problems, urging Nigerians to remain hopeful for a positive change.
