Cardinal John Onaiyekan, the former Archbishop of Abuja Catholic Archdiocese, has voiced serious concerns over the worsening economic conditions in Nigeria under the administration of Chief Bola Tinubu.
Speaking at a Marian Concert in Abuja during the 2024 Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the clergyman highlighted the rising poverty levels, urging the government to urgently review its policies.
Onaiyekan lamented the growing disparity between the wealthy and ordinary citizens, noting that “everybody is now becoming poor.”
He emphasized the struggles faced by Nigerians due to high fuel prices, inflation, and the devaluation of the naira.
Onaiyekan stated, “You can’t tell someone to be patient with poverty while we see the people who are supposed to address our poverty, live flamboyantly.”
The Cardinal specifically pointed out the devastating impact on the middle class, which he said had been “completely wiped out.”
He called for leadership that recognizes the urgency of the people’s plight, warning that “there is a limit to what people can handle.”
Onaiyekan urged the government to ensure justice and equity, advocating for the fair distribution of the nation’s resources.
“When there is a sense of justice and equity, the nation’s common resources are equitably distributed,” he added.
He concluded by asking Nigerians to pray for their leaders.
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