Amanze Chinonye
The Forum of South-East Academic Doctors (FOSAD) on Tuesday backed the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) over its criticism of the country’s worsening economic conditions, urging President Bola Tinubu to heed the clerics’ concerns and adopt measures to ease hardship across the country, Prime Business Africa reports.
In a statement signed by its President, Dr Stephen Nwala, and Secretary-General, Dr Uzor Ngoladi, the group praised the bishops for what it described as their courage in raising the plight of ordinary Nigerians during a recent meeting with Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
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FOSAD said the bishops’ intervention reflected the realities confronting millions of Nigerians and should be regarded as a patriotic contribution to national discourse rather than a partisan political position.
It said soaring inflation and the rising cost of food, transportation, housing, healthcare and education had pushed basic necessities beyond the reach of many households, while businesses continued to struggle and unemployment remained high.
According to the group, the economic downturn has left many families facing severe hardship, with pensioners, workers and other vulnerable groups bearing the greatest burden.
“The lived experience of the average Nigerian today is one of pain, deprivation and anxiety,” the statement said.
FOSAD argued that constructive criticism from religious leaders, academics, civil society organisations and professional bodies is essential to democratic governance, warning that governments risk poor decision-making when they are insulated from honest feedback.
The forum also condemned attempts to discredit the Catholic bishops over their remarks, saying the issues they highlighted cut across religious, ethnic and political lines.
“Hunger has no religion. Inflation has no ethnicity. Poverty recognises no denomination,” it said.
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The group called on the Federal Government to move beyond what it described as optimistic rhetoric and implement policies that deliver measurable improvements in citizens’ welfare.
It urged the Tinubu administration to prioritise efforts to curb inflation, stabilise food prices, support local production, protect jobs, strengthen security and restore public confidence in governance.
FOSAD said intellectual honesty and moral courage were indispensable during periods of national crisis, describing the bishops’ intervention as an example of responsible civic leadership.
The forum reaffirmed its commitment to promoting democratic values, social justice, responsible governance and the dignity of all Nigerians.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
