Catholic bishop tasks political leaders on food inflation

THE Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, Ignatius Kaigama, has called on political leaders to show concern and take proactive measures to save Nigerians from starvation.

His statement was due to rising food prices and the fear by Nigerians that next year will be more difficult, as many farmers are unable to go to farm due to fear of attacks by bandits and killer herders.

Kaigama urged the leaders to protect the helpless masses from violent attacks.

In his homily at the 20th anniversary of St. Donald Catholic Church, Karu, Abuja, yesterday, the cleric lamented: “Of the many challenges we face as a country, the challenge of leadership prevails.”

He challenged the political leadership to exercise authority with fidelity and responsibility; like Jesus, to empty themselves of power and to empathise with the suffering of the people.

Observing that a good leader seeks to foster the spirit of solidarity, harmonious coexistence and proper integration to achieve set goals rather than stir division and hate, he regretted that persons who had been duly elected and saddled with the responsibility of serving the populace end up exploiting the poor masses and embezzling public funds meant to provide basic social amenities.

“A good leader is always compassionate. He feels the pains of his people and is ever available to them and uses all the resources in his power for their good.

“Jeremiah’s prophecy of a virtuous branch from the descendant of David to reign as a true and diligent king found fulfilment in Jesus. In our case, too, once there is life, there is hope. Even in such difficult times of political, social and economic crises, God promises to restore and heal our land,” he assured.