The Catholic Bishops of Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province have opposed the use of force by the Economic Community of West African States(ECOWAS) in resolving the constitutional crisis in the Niger Republic.
The clergies maintained that any government that fails to represent the interest of its people well in a democracy has compromised own legitimacy.
In the communique made available to journalists after their meeting held at the Pope John Paul II, Pastoral Centre, Ado-Ekiti and signed by Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin, President and Most Rev. John Oyejola, Secretary. the bishops warned that ” No Nigerian life should be sacrificed for the crisis in Niger or anywhere else because war of any kind is a failure of humanity”.
The Bishop’s in Ibadan, Ilorin, Ondo, Oye, Ekiti and Osogbo Catholic Dioceses said all Nigerian leaders stand indicted unless they make a change, shun prebendalism and serve the aspirations of the people in Nigeria.
The Bishop’s said most of the current leaders seem to lead the country without any compass, hardly knowing what to do about anything.
The religious leaders noted that the demands of Nigerians are very straightforward and simple as purposeful leadership and good governance.
“verifiable in security of life and property, demand infrastructure and social amenities, the enforcement of the rule of law and a conducive atmosphere for development”
The religious leaders noted that Nigerians are still desperate for better times which seem now more and more like a mirage.
“It is destressing that Nigerians leaders past and present, continue to exact more sacrifice from ordinary Nigerians while increasing their own scandalous remunerations and comfort”
The Bishop’s pointed out that it is the responsibility of government to see that no one is forced to leave his fatherland due to push-factors such as bad governance, insecurity, bad economy, unaffordable and unstable education system and lack of job opportunities.
The clerics align with the Catholic Bishops of Africa, urging all who would migrate, to do so legally and with adequate information about the risks and dangers they might face.
They called on government to show more commitment to solve the challenges of insecurity and curb kidnapping, banditry, insurgency, or ritual killing.
“recent killing of 21 Nigerian soldiers by suspected bandits in Kundu, Niger State does not inspire confidence that the security agencies are are to confront the prevailing situation”
The Bishops prayed for the country and Nigerians to God who is ever faithful to overcome these challenges confronting the nation.