LAGOS — BISHOPS of the Methodist Church in Nigeria have charged the Federal Government to implement policies that will tame inflation in the country warning that if the economic challenges facing Nigerians are not tackled, it may lead to chaos and anarchy.

This came on a day a popular Islamic cleric, Imam Muideen Salman, urged politicians to stem the tide of greed to reduce the level of hardship in Nigeria.

The Bishops spoke at the end of the 41st annual council meeting of Bishops of the Methodist Church in Nigeria with the theme, ‘Arise and Build’, held at Hoares Memorial Methodist Cathedral, Archdiocese of Lagos Mainland in Sabo, Lagos.

They insisted that concerted efforts from the government were important to alleviate the financial strain on consumers and sustain economic stability amidst ongoing economic challenges.

The Bishops in a communique read by the Prelate, Dr Oliver Ali Aba, said: “The Council expresses alarm at the high rate of unemployment among young people, which is linked to various social vices.

We urge governments and parents to take responsibility for empowering their children. The Council is concerned about the rising cases of teenage pregnancy, cultism, fraud, exam malpractices, political thuggery, prostitution, drug abuse, and other criminal activities among youth. We warn that if left unaddressed, these issues may lead to chaos and anarchy in the country, emphasizing the need for immediate action.

“The Council is calling on the Federal Government to step up its efforts to address the worsening insecurity in the country, condemning the violent actions of criminals such as bandits, kidnappers, and armed robbers. The Council demands accountability for recent attacks on public institutions and urges security agencies to work together to find a comprehensive solution to the country’s security challenges.”

Meanwhile, an Islamic cleric, Imam Muideen Salman, who delivered a lecture at the Fidau prayer of Mama Hajarat Akinleye, mother of the Chief of Staff to Osun Governor, Kazeem Akinleye, at the Osun NYSC camp in Ede, charged the political class to live the life of service rather than being selfish.

The cleric, while directing his sermon to politicians at the gathering, said they would account for their actions before God after leaving office and on judgement day.

He said: “It is important as politicians to prioritise the welfare of the masses on whose shoulders you ride to power. These masses are suffering because of politicians’ greed. To avoid the wrath of God, you must reduce your greed, and selfishness to make life liveable for the poor.

“You must all recognise that political authority is temporary and you will account for everything action after office and on the day of judgement.”

Happenings