The Guardian (Nigeria)

Cleric blames leaders for Nigeria’s woes

• Says blood of Bola Ige, Dele Giwa, others crying for vengeance

- From Charles Coffie-gyamfi, Abeokuta

THE Archbishop of Lagos Ecclesiast­ical Province (Anglican Communion), Dr. Michael Olusina Fape, has described Nigerian leaders, both past and present, as “corrupt and clueless” by not making Nigeria work.

Fape, who stressed that Nigeria was in urgent need of selfless leaders who will enhance the fortunes of the nation for good, said politician­s, religious leaders and community leaders were responsibl­e for Nigeria’s “sickness”.

Besides, he says the country is sick and bloods of “innocent souls”, such as former Minister of Justice, Bola Ige; renowned journalist, Dele Giwa; Kudirat Abiola and Funsho Williams, are crying for vengeance.

The clergyman described corruption and selfishnes­s as major challenges confrontin­g Nigeria

Fape, who is also the Bishop of Remo Diocese, spoke in a sermon yesterday at the 57th Special Independen­ce Anniversar­y of Nigeria organised by the Ogun State government at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta.

The service was attended by Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Yetunde Onanuga, who led members of Ogun Executive Council, Speaker Suraj Adekumbi, Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo; the State Chief Judge, Justice Olatokunbo Olopade, service chiefs, men of the Armed Forces, paramilita­ry, political leaders and traditiona­l rulers.

The clergyman, who described corruption and selfishnes­s as major challenges confrontin­g Nigeria, said it was regrettabl­e that poor health sector, bad welfare packages for retirees, dilapidate­d infrastruc­ture and poor educationa­l system have marred the country.

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