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From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
The Catholic Archbishop of Ibadan, Most Rev Dr Gabriel ‘Leke Abegunrin, has urged the Nigerian government to subsidize the prices of food in order to alleviate the hardship faced by Nigerians due to increasing prices. Speaking on Wednesday at a press conference in Ibadan, Oyo State Capital, Archbishop Abegunrin proposed the idea of permanent subsidies rather than sporadic distribution of food and cash to certain individuals.
According to the Archbishop, implementing price controls by the government would also be an effective measure to tackle the inflation of prices in the market. He emphasised that such initiatives would provide a lasting solution to the difficulties faced by the people.
Addressing the issue of insecurity in the country, Abegunrin stressed that economic hardship often leads individuals to engage in defiant behaviours. He called on the government to ensure that various security outfits provide sufficient security for all citizens. Insufficient security measures can lead to situations where communities take the law into their own hands, resulting in jungle justice and potentially compromising peaceful coexistence.
Additionally, Abegunrin expressed concern about the lack of job opportunities in Nigeria, which forces many young people to seek greener pastures elsewhere, a phenomenon known as “Japa syndrome.” He urged the government at all levels to establish effective mechanisms that would generate employment opportunities for young individuals.
The Archbishop also called for schools to be returned to their original owners to ensure quality education. He emphasised the Catholic Church’s belief in holistic education and highlighted the positive influence of Catholic-run schools in the past.
Finally, the Archbishop urged Muslims, as they observe fasting during Ramadan, to use this time to pray for Nigeria and the individual states. He emphasised the importance of promoting brotherliness, love, and solidarity among different religious groups, as well as discouraging hatred and dissension.
Archbishop Abegunrin’s call for government subsidies and measures to tackle rising food prices, insecurity, lack of job opportunities, and quality education reflects his concern for the well-being of Nigerians and a desire for a peaceful and prosperous nation.
