Methodist Bishops, Islamic Clerics to FG: “Hardship May Lead to Chaos, Anarchy”

Methodist Bishops and Islamic clerics have urged the Federal Government to address the economic hardships facing Nigeria, warning that failure to act could lead to chaos and anarchy.

During the 41st annual council meeting of Bishops of the Methodist Church in Nigeria, held at Hoares Memorial Methodist Cathedral, Lagos, the bishops emphasized the urgent need for policies to combat inflation and economic instability. Speaking on the theme ‘Arise and Build,’ the bishops stressed the government’s role in alleviating financial strain on citizens to maintain economic stability.

In a communique read by the Prelate, Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, the bishops expressed alarm over the high unemployment rate among youth, linking it to social vices such as teenage pregnancy, cultism, fraud, and political thuggery. “If these issues remain unaddressed, they could lead to chaos and anarchy,” warned the bishops, calling for immediate government action.

The bishops also condemned the rising insecurity in Nigeria, urging the Federal Government to take stronger measures against banditry, kidnappings, and armed robbery. They demanded accountability for recent attacks on public institutions and called for a comprehensive security strategy.

Meanwhile, popular Islamic cleric Imam Muideen Salman echoed these concerns at a lecture during the Fidau prayer of Mama Hajarat Akinleye, mother of Osun Governor’s Chief of Staff, at the Osun NYSC camp in Ede. Addressing politicians, Imam Salman criticized the greed driving Nigeria’s hardship, urging leaders to prioritize public welfare over personal gain.

“Politicians must live a life of service and recognize that their authority is temporary,” Salman said. “They will be accountable to God for their actions both after leaving office and on the day of judgment.”