By Cross Udo, Abuja
The Christian Council of Nigeria (CCN) has charged the nation’s leaders at all levels and in all arms of government to prioritise the welfare and well-being of Nigerians above any consideration and endeavour not to heat the polity unnecessarily.
CCN has also advised the judiciary, especially judges, to ensure that their judgements and rulings do not promote confusion and disorder.
In a statement he issued yesterday, the President of the Council, the Most Rev Dr David Onuoha, counselled that at a time of economic hardship and growing insecurity of lives and property, efforts should be channelled towards finding solutions that will make life more meaningful and bearable for citizens.
Noting that impunity is always a precursor to anarchy, the cleric stressed that “those who serve in the temple of justice must, like God the Ultimate Judge who brought order out of chaos, ensure that their judgements and rulings do not promote confusion and disorder.
He said, “Nigerians look up to them for pronouncements that will hold everyone accountable and compel them to abide by rules, no matter how highly placed.
“Those who have the constitutional responsibility of making laws and having oversight on the executive arm of government should note that they are representing the people of Nigeria and not replacing them.
“Any action, therefore, that is not in the interests manifest interest of their constituents is a betrayal of trust and a great disservice to successive generations of Nigerians.”
On the insecurity bedevilling parts of the country, Onuoha advised that efforts should be made to end the wanton waste and destruction of innocent lives of citizens, including the security personnel.
He said, “These agents of destruction, be they herdsmen, terrorists or bandits, should be stopped before they stop Nigeria, and this can only be done in an atmosphere of mutual love, trust and unity of purpose.
“We must convince ourselves that no matter what belief some may hold, the truth remains that everyone will suffer if things get out of hand.
“May we use the current period of Lent and Ramadan fast to seek the face of God in genuine penitence and repentance and resolve to truly work to ‘build a nation where no man is oppressed.”
