Methodist Bishop Urges Tinubu to Address Economic Hardship, Insecurity

The Bishop of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Kwara, Rt. Rev. Joseph F. Osifuwa, has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently address Nigeria’s worsening economic crisis and escalating insecurity.

Speaking at the 35th Annual Synod of the church held at the Cathedral of Blessing, Ilorin, Bishop Osifuwa lamented the deepening poverty, stating that over 90 percent of Nigerians now live below the poverty line.

He blamed government policies such as the removal of fuel subsidy and the floating of the naira for triggering inflation and making basic necessities unaffordable.

“Life has become unbearable for most Nigerians,” he said, while condemning the ongoing killings in states like Benue and Plateau.

He described the insecurity as a national tragedy and warned that the exodus of Nigerian youths is a sign of lost hope.

“Innocent blood continues to defile the land. Enough is enough,” the bishop declared, urging the Federal Government to take decisive action against bandits and terrorists.

He further advised the Tinubu administration to engage capable professionals to revive the economy, create jobs, and support entrepreneurs through accessible loans and grants.

He also emphasized the need for more investment in agriculture to guarantee food security.

Bishop Osifuwa also called for improvements in electricity, road infrastructure, and healthcare, noting that many communities still lack basic amenities.

Commending the Kwara State Government for its palliative efforts, he urged the adoption of long-term development strategies.

He called for the implementation of the proposed N70,000 minimum wage and better welfare for civil servants.

Raising concern over security threats in areas such as Kaiama and Share, the bishop warned that continued attacks could worsen food insecurity in the state.

He concluded by urging political and religious leaders in Kwara to promote peace, unity, and tolerance, warning against any form of ethnic or religious division.

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