Addressing the challenges faced by Nigeria, the Catholic Bishops of the Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province, which includes four states, stated that governance through palliatives, intimidation, or evasive tactics cannot provide lasting solutions. This assertion was made in a communique issued at the conclusion of their meeting at the Domus Pacis Pastoral Institute in Igoba, Akure, the capital of Ondo State.
The communique was signed by the Archbishop of the Ibadan Catholic Archdiocese, Gabriel Abegunrin, and Bishop John Oyejola, the chairman and secretary of the meeting, respectively.
The clerics emphasized, “We strongly believe that if governments at all levels in Nigeria had responded more promptly and effectively to the grievances and distress calls of the Nigerian people, the current protests would not have gained momentum.”
“Nigerians have voiced their concerns about severe hunger, ongoing insecurity, unfulfilled promises, dashed hopes, the exorbitant cost of living and governance, and the ineffectiveness of the rule of law in curbing criminality among public officials. Additionally, many public officers’ ineptitude in handling serious national issues has exacerbated the situation.”
“We urge the Federal, State, and Local Governments to promptly address the distress calls of the Nigerian people and to respond effectively to their problems and grievances.”
“As we have stated previously, governance by palliatives, intimidation, or evasive tactics cannot provide lasting solutions to the country’s challenges.”
Regarding the planned protest, the clerics called on Nigerians to stage a peaceful and orderly demonstration. They urged governments at all levels to be proactive in addressing the suffering of Nigerians and to prevent protests.
The communique highlighted that protests should not cause alarm in any true democratic setting, as the right to protest is guaranteed in democracies worldwide. However, the bishops warned that protesters should remain orderly while exercising their constitutional rights.
“Protests in Nigeria should serve their purpose and no other. Protesters should exercise restraint and not disturb or intimidate those who choose not to participate, respecting their inalienable right to abstain.”
The bishops called on security agencies to handle the protests professionally to avoid violence and bloodshed.
“During this protest, relevant security organizations must show restraint and civility in their duties to prevent violence and accidental deaths, which have unfortunately characterized past exercises in Nigeria.”
