By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Archbishop of Ibadan Ecclesiastical Province and Bishop of Ibadan North (Anglican) Diocese, Right Reverend Williams Aladekugbe on Friday condemned what he called the desperation shown by politicians jostling for elective positions ahead of the 2027 general election.
He said politician bargaining for only one term in office is a sign of desperation, adding that such will not work.
This is as he also faults leaders carrying plates, serving food at parties as a height of desperation that will not work on Nigerians.
The cleric said it is very disurbing that while the President Bola Tinubu led government needed to settle and address the myriads of problems facing the country, some politicians have been talking about 2027, describing such as a disgrace to governance, abuse of the people’s mandate and reckless disregard for the concerns of the people.
He gave the charge while delivering his sermon at the final farewell service of the late Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, the 43rd Olubadan of Ibadanland.
According to the cleric, as far back as less than two years of President Tinubu in office, some politicians have been talking about 2027 instead of focusing on the delivery of good governance, noting that it is even worse now.
Archbishop Aladekugbe said, “The hardship in our country continues unabated. The time for mass employment programmes for the teeming population of our youths cannot be later than now.
“Unfortunately, while our government seems to have stabilized the economy, the increase in tariffs of telecommunications at a time when prices have skyrocketed and when poverty level has increased, can only be seen as insensitive and a signal of disconnect with the masses.
“It is very disurbing that while our government needed to settle and address the myriads of problems facing our country, some politicians have been talking about 2027. This is a disgrace to governance, abuse of the people’s mandate and reckless disregard for the concerns of the people.
“As far back as less than two years of President Tinubu in office, shameless politicians have been talking about 2027 instead of focusing on the delivery of good governance. And now it is even worse.”
He said further, “Let me say that any politician bargaining for only one term is a sign of desperation. It will not work. It is also a sign of desperation when you see leaders in their own rights carrying plates, serving food at parties. All these will not work.
“We plead with elected politicians to do the electorate good by concentrating on governance and service to the people and delay political intrigues and the likes till the last year of their term.
“It is deeply regrettable that Nigeria has come to be characterized by insecurity and the life of people is not worth anything again. The rate at which souls are being lost in various parts of our country, due to the activities of bandits, herdsmen, and other nefarious activities must be a matter of concern to every sane person.
“Whether it is in the North, Middle belt, or the South, killings and waste of innocent lives appear to be one common denominator apart from poverty.”
He appeal to President Tinubu to do more in stopping the killings and insecurity across the country.
“We appeal to our government under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu to rise to the occasion and stop the killings. The figures that we now have of lost lives are very disturbing to read.
“The primary duty of government is to protect the citizens. We plead with our government to invest in intelligence reporting, equipping the security outfits, and equipment that will enhance surveillance on the activities of these evil men all over the country. The Church shall continue to uphold all levels of government in her prayers.”
