From Okey Sampson, Umuahia
Umuahia synod of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria has expressed worry over renewed attacks in Benue State which has led to loss of innocent lives and destruction of properties.
In a communique signed by Rev. (Dr.) Chinedum Itam Okoroafor, Synod Moderator and Rev. Anthony Okoro Ufere, Synod Clerk and issued by the synod after her 2nd annual meeting held in Umuahia the Abia State capital, the church noted with regret that the attacks carried out by armed herdsmen or bandit groups, have continued to create a climate of fear and instability in the country.
In strongly condemning the attacks, the Synod called on the Federal Government, Security Agencies and relevant authorities to act decisively in protecting lives and restoring peace and order in the affected areas.
The Synod noted with concern the recent flooding in Mokwa, Niger State, and called on governments at all levels to invest in long-term solutions including drainage systems and flood control.
鈥淭his environmental crisis is a reminder of the urgent need for proactive disaster management and improved infrastructure to mitigate the effects of climate change.
鈥淯muahia Synod therefore called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relief agencies to intervene promptly and effectively.
鈥淲e call on the church and well-meaning Nigerians to offer support to displaced and affected persons.鈥
The Synod thanked the Federal Government for the various aids and grants so far offered to Nigerians in order to mitigate the hardship in the country and encouraged students of tertiary institutions to key into the Nigerian Education Loan Fund
(NELFund) being offered by the federal government.
The church commended Abia Governor, Dr. Alex Otti for his good performance and called on him to address the issue of pension arrears owed retired workers.
鈥淭he Synod expressed deep concern over the current economic hardship affecting Nigerians.The rising cost of living, food inflation, fuel prices and unemployment have pushed many families into poverty and despair.鈥
It therefore called for greater accountability and transparency in governance as well as a reduction in the cost of governance.