Northern CAN express worry over hunger, hardship

Rev Yakubu Pam

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have expressed worry over the rate of hunger and hardship in the country.

The body also said that politicians who did not handle the country’s economy properly are now using poverty and hunger as a tool in the forthcoming elections. Hence, they must look into the issue of lack in the country.

 

These statements were contained in a communiqué signed by the Chairman of the body, Rev. Yakubu Pam, and its Secretary General, Sunday Oibe, during the National Executive Council meeting of the body in Kaduna.

The communique read, “Some of the issues deliberated upon include the harsh economic situation in the country which has brought about mass poverty and hunger among millions of Nigeria; the 2023 general elections; insecurity; and the prolonged strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).

”CAN expressed deep worry over hunger and poverty in the land.  Our weak economy has thrown millions of Nigerians into abject poverty and hunger.

“Life is becoming a living hell as people struggle to make ends meet. Almost on a daily basis, prices of food and essential items are on the increase. Many families can barely get one square meal in a day.

“There is no denying the fact that there is poverty and hunger in the land. The reality on the ground is evident for all to see. Poverty and hunger affect all spheres of life. It fuels criminality and crime; it affects education; it affects quality healthcare. Hunger affects citizens’ political choices.

“Already those who mismanaged the economy are using hunger as a weapon as the 2023 general election approaches. We call on governments at all levels to address the problem of poverty and hunger in Nigeria.

CAN, therefore, calls on Nigerians to ensure that the 2023 elections are conducted under a peaceful atmosphere without rancour.

“Election is not war. No politician is worth dying for. No one should take the laws into his or her hands. The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, should ensure that the elections are free, fair and credible.”