The Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, has argued that economic statistics alone do not reflect the harsh reality faced by many Nigerians.
The Cardinal urged the nation’s leaders to tackle hunger and poverty, noting that the situation is worrisome and getting out of hand.
The Cleric speaking while delivering a homily at Rev. Fr. Maurice Emelu’s 20th Priestly Ordination and 50th birthday celebration, at the Church of Immaculate Conception, Umuchima in Ideato-South Local Government Area (LGA) of Imo State, noted that political leaders have to face the reality rather than be shying away from reality.
He said, “15 to 20 years ago, Nigeria was poor but not hungry. Today, unfortunately, Nigerians are hungry.”
Onaiyekan said that rather than focus on the big statistics that Nigeria’s economy is doing well, “leaders should focus on alleviating the obvious hunger and poverty in the land.
“This promise of a better future and, therefore, we should accept the difficulties around us is not acceptable.
“Our politicians are talking of renewed hope, with little or nothing to sustain such hope, which for many, has turned into hopelessness.
“There is a growing burden of poverty in our nation, a tragic irony in a nation richly blessed by God.
“President Bola Tinubu should not just listen to his advisers, but should come down and eat with the poor to feel their pains.”
Archbishop Onaiyekan advocated the revival of the collaboration between the church and the government to improve public services for all.
In a speech, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections, Mr. Peter Obi, opined that Nigeria was currently passing through a difficult period.
Obi, who joined other dignitaries to serve food to the guests present, expressed a desire for a Nigeria where collective well-being was prioritised.
“This is the way we want our society to be, a society where people care for the needy.
“We want more of Fr. Maurice and individuals who care for the poor,” Obi stressed.
