Bishop Akinola urges Nigerian Govt to end policies worsening poverty
Dr. Taiwo Akinola, Presiding Bishop of Rhema Christian Church & Towers in Sango Ota, Ogun State, has called on the federal government to adopt people-centered policies to address the country’s economic crisis.
Speaking to journalists ahead of the church’s 33rd World Convention, themed “Exceeding Grace,” scheduled for November 3-10, 2024, Bishop Akinola urged the Bola Tinubu administration to reshape policies with a “human face” to foster growth and alleviate poverty.
Bishop Akinola, who will be formally inducted as an archbishop during the convention, stressed the need for leadership that genuinely considers the impact of its policies on the public and the economy. “While bitter measures may sometimes be necessary in times of national challenges, certain policies that drive people into abject poverty should be rethought,” he stated.
Reflecting on recent economic reforms, including the devaluation of the naira, Akinola acknowledged the intention behind aligning the currency with its black-market rate. However, he warned of the increasing hardship for ordinary Nigerians and urged the government to consider the timing and people-centeredness of economic strategies.
The cleric also condemned the rising fuel prices following the subsidy removal in June 2023, noting that petrol and diesel now cost over N1,100 and N1,200 per liter, respectively. He questioned the stalled progress of the Dangote Refinery and the revival of existing refineries, asking, “Is there any hope in view for the common man?”
Akinola appealed to the government to introduce sustainable relief measures to ease the suffering caused by skyrocketing living costs, especially in transportation, food, and medicine. He noted that the convention would also focus on supporting the community, with food donations, free medical consultations, and camping facilities for attendees.
Akinola concluded by inviting the public to the convention, where seasoned ministers like Bishop Dr. Francis Wale Oke, Archbishop Joseph Ojo, and others will join to bless attendees. The convention will culminate with his installation as Charismatic Archbishop of Rhema Christian Church, Christ Global Network, and the International Communion of Charismatic and Apostolic Ministers.
