Jesica Osajie / Posted January 15, 2025
Arising from a critical stakeholders meeting, the Nigerian Christian Elders Forum (NCEF) has raised concern over the biting hunger in Nigeria which, it said, has continued to fuel corruption in the country.
The concerns raised by the Nigerian Christian Elders Forum (NCEF) underscore critical socio-economic and political issues in Nigeria.
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The key takeaways from the statement issued by the NCEF Chairman, Dr. Samuel Danjuma Dani, includes:
Biting Hunger and Corruption:
The forum noted that widespread hunger in Nigeria has continued to fuel corruption.
Immediate governmental action is urged to alleviate these challenges.
Extortion at Security Checkpoints:
Security agents across the country allegedly extort money from transporters of foodstuff.
These illegal levies contribute to the rising costs of foodstuff in markets, exacerbating hunger and economic hardship.
NCEF called for the dismantling of such checkpoints to curb extortion and reduce food prices.
Criticism of President Tinubu’s Participation in the Arab-Islamic Summit:
The NCEF criticized President Bola Tinubu for attending the Arab-Islamic Summit in Saudi Arabia in November 2024.
They believe this action misrepresents Nigeria’s constitutional secular status and promotes a religious divide.
NCEF emphasized the need for leadership that fosters unity and respects the secularity of the nation.
Recommendations by NCEF:
Government Action on Extortion:
Investigate and address the extortion at checkpoints to ensure food affordability.
Focus on National Unity:
Avoid actions or affiliations that could deepen religious divisions.
Promote policies that reflect the secular constitution of Nigeria and encourage inclusiveness.
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Leading members of NCEF, who are in agreement with its Chairman, Dr. Samuel Dani are Pastor Bosun Emmanuel (Secretary), Dr. Saleh Hussaini, Vice Chairman (North); Elder Shyngle Wigwe, Vice Chairman (South); Mrs. Osaretin Demuren, Hon. Treasurer; Prof. Joseph Otubu, Dr. (Mrs) Kate Okparaeke, Dr. Ayo Abifarin, Gen. Zamani Lekwot (rtd), Hon. Justice James Ogebe, JSC (rtd); Elder Moses Ihonde, Hon. Justice Kalajine Anigbogu (rtd), Elder Nat Okoro, Mr. Solomon Asemota (SAN) and Elder Matthew Owojaiye.
Others include DIG P. L. Dabup, Sir John W. Bagu, late Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Dame Priscilla Kuye, Prof. (Mrs) Deborah Enilo Ajakaiye, HRM Oba Dokun Thompson, Dr. Taiwo Idemudia (Diaspora), Elder Minso Gadzama, Apostle Bulus Musa Kewa, Admiral Peter Adeniyi (Rtd), Hon. Justice Goddy Anunihu (Rtd) and Chief Sir Ferdinand Anikwe.
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The issues raised resonate with broader concerns about governance, economic hardship, and the need for policies that unify rather than divide the diverse nation of Nigeria. Addressing these challenges requires robust reforms, effective leadership, and transparency
NOTE: Jessica is on Student Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES) at DDNEWSONLINE.COM from the Department of Mass Communication, National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).