Nigerians Reaping No Benefit From Fuel Subsidy Removal – Bishop

The Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), the Right Reverend Geoffrey Ibeabuchi, has said Nigerians have not benefited anything from the federal government’s removal of fuel subsidy.

The cleric spoke at the first session of the 11th synod of the diocese at All Saints Anglican Church, Umuahia at the weekend.

The theme of the synod in the 30th year of the diocese was “Sitting at the feet of Jesus: The right choice” and taken from the gospel according to St Luke 10:38-42.

Ibeabuchi also said the effect of the removal was not affecting only the rich but everyone except politicians and those in government. 

He said most people are yet to see the compressed natural gas buses for public transport or better life to cushion the effect of the removal which the government promised.

The bishop argued that the current hike in electricity tariff is another area the people are finding it difficult to cope with as the situation is compounded by scarcity of money and food.

“Our best brains are leaving the country, especially health workers, economists, lecturers, businessmen and businesses. Thousands of companies are shutting down or relocating.

“What can we say about insecurity, kidnapping, banditry and their likes? We appreciate all that the government is doing but request it to do more to ensure the security of lives and property of the people,” he said.

He said the synod commended the government for its efforts on creation of state police, but expressed fear that the government may convert it to its selfish purposes.

“Therefore, we request that if finally approved, adequate laws must be put in place to guide their operations and ensure that they are not partisan and uncompromising in their operations.

“We call President Bola Tinubu not to allow Mazi Nnamdi Kanu to die in detention. Please, let him be freed and released. We humbly request the judiciary to do the needful,” he said.

He further said the synod lauded the government for successfully commissioning the Aba Geometric Power Plant. “We request that this gesture be extended to other parts of the state and the nation.”

The local organising committee chairman of the synod, Sir Gabriel Onyedilefu, expressed appreciation for its success, attributing it to “God’s gracious intervention in the face of the economic realities”.