The Catholic Church has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Academic Staff Union of Universities, (ASSU), to as a matter of urgency and in the interest of security and the future of the country, call off the strike that has led to the closure of universities, for almost two months now.
The church says it will continue to be a voice of conscience on national issues, and make its contribution to national development.
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At a Mass held by the Catholic Diocese of Jalingo to mark the completion of its 20th General Assembly for the year 2022, the clergy and laity put issues that affect the ordinary Nigerian on the front burner taking a stance on some issues of national interest.
One of these is the lingering strike by the Academic Staff Union of Universities, (ASUU), which has kept university students out of school for almost two months, a development the church says, has rendered a large number of Nigerian youths redundant, putting the security and future of the country in danger.
The church also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to give all Nigerians equal opportunity to obtain the voters card and prepare to deliver a credible election, come 2023.
It also charged Christian believers to contest for political offices, to cleanse the country’s political landscape from the perception of dirty politics.
The fostering of ethical behaviour in institutions, to address moral decadence among Nigerian youths was also identified by the church, as a means to address their involvement in social vices.
Editor: Ena Agbanoma