Archbishop, Catholic Church, Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin Dares Nigerians

The Archbishop, Catholic Archdiocese of Ibadan, Most Rev. Gabriel Abegunrin, said the collapse of political class was why many Nigerians are giving up hope of a better society.

Abegunrin spoke in Ede, Osun state, on Monday at the opening session of the 1st Diocesan Synod of the Catholic Diocese of Osogbo.

The cleric also called on the Church to restore people’s hope and show light in the darkness of the world, just as he charged participants at the event to devise solution to some of the societal problems.

He said, “The near collapse of a vibrant and responsible political class has led not only the youth, but also many adults to give up hope on a better society.

“I know there are many here that want to ‘japa’ (leave the country). If everyone ‘Japa’, who will remain to solve the problems?

“The Church must restore the hope of these people and become light in the darkness of our world. I am confident that this Synod will open your eyes more to the needs of our people. In a synodal way, you can all devise a solution to these problems and present the gospel message in a way that will bring joy and hope to our people just as it did at its infancy.”

Speaking with journalists after the Mass held to formally flag off the synod, the Bishop, Catholic Diocese of Osogbo, Most Rev. John Oyejola, called on people in positions of authority to be selfless.

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He also charged Nigerians to register to vote in the next general elections, saying those that have registered must not sell their votes, but must vote only leaders they can trust.