Corruption, bad governance Cause of Nigeria’s underdevelopment – Catholic Bishops 

From Ene Asuquo, Calabar 

The Catholic Bishops of Nigeria (CBCN) rose up from its conference in Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom State, expressing deep concern over the country’s situation,stating that corruption and bad governance are  the main cause of Nigeria’s Underdevelopment and poverty.

They warned that Nigeria is at risk of collapse if something urgently is not done, calling for urgent reforms to address the country’s situation 

Addressking journalists in his office in Calabar, the Archbishop of Calabar Archdiocese, His Grace, Most Rev. Joseph Ekuwem, stated that the position taken is the resolution of the church after days of fervent prayers. 

Ekuwem maintained that what  he has said remains the position of the Catholic Church bishops, lamenting insecurity and the continued loss of lives and property, with citizens being kidnapped, dehumanized, killed,  and forced to flee their homes. 

In a communique issued at the end of their  plenary meeting held at the Diocese Retreat and youth development centre, Nto Ekpo Ikot, Nko, Ikot Ekpene Diocese, Akwa Ibom State, the bishops expressed dissatisfaction at the worsening security situation, which has led to many communities being taken over by criminals.

The bishops conference also highlighted the struggles of Nigerians, with many living in extreme poverty and hardship while politicians were busy prioritizing power play instead of addressing the sufferings by Nigerians. While  demanding for urgent electoral reforms In order  to restore credibility to Nigeria’s electoral process.

The communique also called for electronic transmission and collation of results in real-time, transparent appointment of INEC officials, and a judiciary that rises above compromise in electoral matters.while  encouraging citizens to take responsibility for shaping the nation’s future by getting their Permanent Voter’s Cards ready and voting according to their  conscience.

Meanwhile, the Clerics have also commended the government in some areas of positive changes which according to them, ” we appreciate the recent Federal Government tax reform effort aimed at curbing multiple taxation and giving relief to low- income earners”.

” We commend the government for its efforts towards ensuring food security “.

Women protest over mysterious death of 5 family members in Neke community 

The clerics further  urged the government to address the root causes of economic hardship and insecurity, invest in vocational training and job creation initiatives, and ensure timely trials and improved prison infrastructure among other things