The Archbishop, Metropolitan, and Primate of All Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Most Reverend Henry Ndukuba, has called on the Nigerian military and security forces to be cautious and prevent a repeat of the EndSARS horror as some Nigerians plan for protests against government’s handling of the economy and insecurity which is tagged #EndBadGovernance Protest.
Primate Ndukuba made the call while speaking at the official opening of the Church of Nigeria’s Anglican Chancellors, Registrars, and Legal Officers Conference (ACRLOC) which held in Abuja on Tuesday 30th July, 2024 with the theme, ‘To Whom Shall We Go?’ (John 6:68).
Archbishop Ndukuba acknowledged that citizens have the right to register their grievances through protest, but he called for restraint. He also expressed concern over the government’s inability to address issues of infrastructural projects in public schools and rural communities.
The primate expressed dissatisfaction over the handling of the economy by the government, making reference to the increasing level of hardship, starvation, and economic difficulties faced by Nigerians.
“On the planned mass demonstration against hardship in Nigeria, we accept that the citizens have right to demonstrate as enshrined in the constitution.
“Given the Socio-economic situation, insecurity and apparent hunger and anger in our nation, we call for restraint and caution for all the organizers and those who want to participate in this demonstration.
“We plead for patience on the part of the people and request the police, the military and other enforcement agencies to be cautious in handling this demonstration to make sure that we do not have a reoccurrence of the EndSARS massacre again,” he said.
The primate who also commended the federal government for the steps taken so far to address the situation and complaints of the people, however advised those speaking for the government to tone down their messages and be more conciliatory.
“We both encourage the organizers and government to engage in dialogue and negotiations for the sake of peace, law and order because there is a possibility that miscreants and political disgruntled people can hijack a peace protest and turn it into a weapon to settle scores and destroy lives and property.
“Above all, we call Nigerians to prayer and solemn assembly to seek the face and intervention of God in our nation. We call for an end to corruption and looting of the treasure of this nation,” he said.
The primate also called for accountability and an intensified investigation into leaders who are ‘evil and sacred cows,’ commending the appointment of Mr Olanipekun Olukoyede as the chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) but urged the government to heed calls for accountability.
While addressing the issue of insecurity, which he described as a growing concern that resembles the internal conflicts in Somalia and South Sudan, the cleric called for the establishment of a state or regional police force to address the challenge.
“Our nation, Nigeria, is going through tough times. The country is facing increasing hardship, starvation, and economic difficulties. The appointment of Olanipekun Olukoyede to head the EFCC is commendable, but the calls for accountability are not being heeded.
“The investigation into leaders who are seen as evil and sacred cows must be intensified, and leadership should be seen as a sacred trust from God.
“Nigeria’s insecurity is a growing concern, resembling the internal conflicts in Somalia and South Sudan. The establishment of a State or Regional Police Force can help each zone respond to insecurity, bringing stability, security, and economic growth,” he said.
On the economy, Primate Ndukuba said Economic Policy Planners and Think-Tank have made efforts to stabilise the exchange rate, but further action is needed to address factors like high debt levels, reckless borrowing, corruption, and eroded investor confidence.
He maintained that continuous borrowing also contributes to inflation, affecting the cost of living for ordinary citizens.
“Nigeria is facing challenges due to fuel scarcity and increased electricity tariffs, which are making life difficult for citizens. We are urging the government to intervene and be empathetic in the ongoing negotiation on the review of wages for Nigerian workers in such a way that it will truly alleviate the suffering of the masses.
“It is good that policies promoting entrepreneurship in the digital space are also being implemented to stimulate economic growth and employment. The 2024 budget and Nigeria’s debt profile are intertwined, and the government must balance borrowing for infrastructure with debt sustainability for long-term economic health.
“Food security is crucial for the country’s growth and stability, and we are encouraging citizens to engage in farming and food production. It is time for “Operation Feed Your Family” to help families meet basic food needs,” he added.
The Primate also urged citizens to engage in farming and food production, citing the need for food security.
In addition, Archbishop Ndukuba reaffirmed the Church of Nigeria’s stance against the revisionist rejection of the authority of scriptures, homosexuality, and human sexuality.
He emphasized the need to maintain biblical orthodoxy and the cherished Anglican heritage.
“Our commitment to the stance of the Church of Nigeria against the revisionist rejection of the authority of the scriptures, homosexuality, and human sexuality, and heretical teachings… remains resolute,” the Archbishop added.
The Dean of the Church of Nigeria, Most Rev. Blessing Enyindah, also spoke at the conference, urging participants to remain committed to serving in their roles despite facing challenges. He emphasized the need to connect with God’s Word and remain steadfast in one’s beliefs and responsibilities.
The Registrar of the Church of Nigeria, Mrs Kehinde Ajoni also resonated with the Archbishop’s message, as she emphasized the need for participants at the conference and indeed Nigerians to turn to God and closer to Him in the face of challenges.
By Korede Akintunde
