Expressing deep concern over the escalating insecurity crisis claiming numerous lives in various regions, the leader of Moitaliatu Church of God, Gabriel Akinadewo, has urged President Bola Tinubu to tackle this pressing issue promptly.
In addition to the security challenges, the cleric emphasized the critical need for resolving the alarming inflation rates, highlighting the significant hardships faced by Nigerians due to the economic strain.
Speaking during the 60th anniversary celebration of the church in Ondo town, Ondo State, Akinadewo – who also serves as the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the church’s Moitaliatu Organisation Worldwide – urged the Federal Government to take decisive actions to address the prevailing insecurity in the country.
Expressing dismay over the distressing trend of abductions and killings targeting church leaders and prominent individuals, Akinadewo questioned the efficacy of ransom payments in safeguarding lives.
He remarked, ”Just last week, a pastor was tragically killed in Oyo State while on a mission. Despite paying the ransom demanded by the kidnappers, the pastor’s life was unjustly taken. Such occurrences are incomprehensible within the context of a nation like Nigeria,” he lamented.
“Recently, our troops were deployed to Sierra Leone for peacekeeping missions. Why can’t we deploy similar strategies within Nigeria?”
“The cornerstone of any successful operation lies in effective intelligence gathering, not just brandishing weapons. The total number of these bandits terrorizing Nigerians likely does not exceed 20,000 to 30,000 individuals,” he inferred.
“These criminals are causing untold fear and suffering among Nigerians. While prayers are vital, it is imperative for the government to institute the necessary measures. No faction should be allowed to override the authority of the government. With a presence in all 774 local governments and the 36 states, including the FCT, the president possesses the means to reach any corner of the country.
“They have the capacity to apprehend individuals anywhere when the need arises. The proliferation of terrorists throughout the nation is perplexing. Unfortunately, last week, another Catholic priest was abducted in Kaduna, only to be rescued after a ransom was paid. This narrative is utterly unacceptable. The government’s resolve must be resolute. With the appropriate strategies, neutralizing these terrorists within a short time frame is a feasible objective.”
Turning the spotlight on the escalating inflation rates and soaring prices of commodities and services, Akinadewo recommended the reinstatement of fuel subsidies.
Furthermore, he advocated for an expansion of the president’s economic advisory team to include experts from the private sector with a profound understanding of economic dynamics.
“Subsidies are a prevalent feature across global economies. Even in the United States, subsidies are integrated into the economic framework. It is a concept worth reconsidering,” Akinadewo suggested.