Healing Imo State: SEE How Catholic Bishops Challenge Government To Tackle Corruption And Poverty
In a heartfelt sermon delivered at a Thanksgiving Mass held at Maria Assumpta Cathedral in Owerri, Most Rev. Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), expressed deep concern over the pervasive corruption plaguing Nigeria. The bishops also highlighted the ongoing bloodshed and kidnapping in Imo State, calling for peace and unity among its communities.
Healing Imo State: SEE How Catholic Bishops Challenge Government To Tackle Corruption And Poverty| image 2
Addressing the congregation gathered to observe the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day and celebrate Governor Hope Uzodimma’ s re- election, Bishop Ugorji lamented the alarming levels of corruption prevalent in Nigeria’ s public life. He described corruption as a multifaceted problem that erodes moral integrity and leads to the loss of trust and credibility.
The bishop emphasised that corruption has far- reaching consequences, ranging from bribery, embezzlement, and abuse of office to nepotism, looting of public property, and manipulation. He stressed that corruption is corrosive and deeply entrenched in the lives of the Nigerian people, leading to widespread poverty, undeserved suffering, and misery.
While acknowledging the importance of enacting strong anti- corruption laws, Bishop Ugorji highlighted the need for comprehensive efforts to improve the economy and create job opportunities. He emphasised that poverty and unemployment are contributing factors that drive individuals towards corrupt practices in order to support themselves and their dependents.
