Akinfenwa Urges FG to Redouble Efforts in Alleviating Economic Pains

By Oluwakayode Banjo

The Federal Government has been urged to redouble efforts to speedily alleviate the pains of Nigerians in the wake of current economic challenges.

Bishop of Ibadan Anglican Diocese, the Most Reverend Joseph Akinfenwa made the appeal while delivering his charge at the ongoing second session of the 24th synod of the diocese held at the Anglican Church of the Ascension, Akobo, Ibadan.

The Most Reverend Akinfenwa said, that although he believed that the reforms embarked upon by the President Bola Tinubu administration were well-intentioned, adequate measures must be put in place to cushion the effects on the masses.

“The twin policies of removal of fuel subsidy and floating of the Naira introduced by this administration, even though well-intentioned, have added greatly to the pains of an already traumatized populace. We appeal that these and other reforms that may come later be given a human face.”

“Reforms are for the people; it serves no useful purpose if we crush the people with hardship because we want to reform the system.”

The Most Reverend Akinfenwa appealed to the government at all levels to do everything possible to curb corruption in the country.

“No amount of economic stimulus scheme will work, and no development agenda will fly if the funds injected continue to end up being stolen. Everything that can be suggested for the improvement of the economy will only become effective in an atmosphere of transparency and accountability. If we make good progress in the fight against corruption, we can surely make progress on all other developmental fronts, because whatever modest efforts invested will actually show.”

The Bishop also called on the President and other political office holders to show sensitivity to the plights of the masses by taking at least 50% pay cut off their salaries and allowances.

“We join our voice with those of concerned citizens who have called for less ostentation and flamboyance by Mr President and other political office holders. It is a contradiction in terms for our leaders to ask us to endure hardship and suffering while they are flaunting their extravagance.”

Speaking on the theme of the synod, “In the beginning….. Covenant keeping God”, the Most Reverend Akinfenwa admonished Christians to have a covenant walk with God to guarantee a victorious life.

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