Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, has called on President Bola Tinubu to reconsider his economic policies, emphasising that Nigerians are increasingly dissatisfied with their impact.
Speaking at the 2024 Second Plenary Assembly of the CBCN in Auchi, Edo State, Ugorji, who also serves as the Archbishop of Owerri, highlighted that the current policies have inflicted more harm than good on the populace.
He pointed out that Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges are too complex to be solved by economic reforms alone, regardless of how well-designed or implemented they may be.
Ugorji suggested a return to a regional system of government to address deep-rooted corruption and place the nation on a more sustainable path.
“When all is said and done, we must admit that the cost of running our military-imposed presidential system of government with so many elected officials assisted by numerous support staff is staggering and unsustainable,” Ugorji stated.
He added that corruption among politicians has reached unprecedented levels, largely fueled by the centralized control of national resources at the federal level.
Ugorji called for serious consideration of returning to the regional system of government, as envisioned by Nigeria’s founding fathers, or devolving power to the current six geo-political zones.
He argued that after 25 years of experimenting with the presidential system, now is the time to explore alternative governance models to resolve the nation’s socio-economic issues.
While acknowledging President Tinubu’s achievements outlined in his August 4th speech, the Archbishop expressed deep concern over the nation’s current state.
He cited the alarming debt burden, including a $2.25 billion loan from the World Bank in June 2024, which has pushed Nigeria’s public debt profile to $93.7 billion.
Ugorji also highlighted multiple taxation, widespread hunger, and hardship exacerbated by insecurity as the major challenges facing citizens. He warned that unless proactive steps are taken urgently, the situation could escalate into a major crisis.
Earlier, Most Rev. Fr. Gabriel Dunia, Bishop of Auchi Diocese, in his homily, urged those in authority to serve rather than dominate those they lead.
He also called on citizens to respect their leaders, reminding them that God has placed these leaders in their positions of power. Dunia expressed confidence that through fasting, prayers, and faith, Nigeria’s challenges—such as banditry, corruption, and poor governance—could be overcome.
The bishops, he assured, are in Auchi to pray for the country, trusting that God’s mercy will bring about a positive change in Nigeria’s fortunes.
