Catholic Bishop Most Rev. Dr. Peter Odetoyinbo accuses President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of betraying the ‘renewed hope’ agenda by living an extravagant lifestyle and frequently traveling abroad seeking for a legitimate.
He lambasted Tinubu and politicians of advocating for Nigerians to endure economic hardship while they themselves revel in opulence.
Expressing his discontent in his 2023 Christmas message, Bishop Odetoyinbo underscored the contradiction between the extravagant lifestyles of politicians and the ‘renewed hope’ vision presented by the Tinubu-led Federal Government.
The cleric emphasized that leaders living in affluence while citizens suffer in poverty betray the essence of the promised ‘renewed hope’ agenda.
Calling for a tangible commitment to alleviating the present economic challenges in the country, Bishop Odetoyinbo urged Nigerian leaders to align their words with meaningful actions. He challenged leaders across government branches to rebuild trust and confidence in the people.
In the message titled, “Christmas: Let us reawaken hope in ourselves and country,” Bishop Odetoyinbo called for a collective effort to prevent a few individuals from hijacking the nation’s wealth. He emphasized the need to resist acts such as terrorism, banditry, and electoral malpractices that undermine the country’s integrity.
Highlighting the essence of Christmas, the Bishop urged Nigerians to celebrate the love of God by sharing with those facing difficulties due to economic hardships. He called on those who are well-off to extend their generosity to the poor and less privileged, acknowledging the prevalent hunger in the city and famine in the plain.
Addressing the myriad of challenges facing the nation, Bishop Odetoyinbo encouraged Nigerians not to lose hope in their efforts to reform and rebuild the country. Despite the doubts, hunger, and challenges posed by leaders and compatriots, he urged citizens to remain resolute in their vision for a new Nigeria.
In a plea against brain drain, the Bishop reminded Nigerians of their collective responsibility to nurture hope and prevent the flourishing of desperation and hopelessness. Drawing parallels with other nations that overcame dark moments in history, he urged citizens to believe that Nigeria will rise again, emphasizing the importance of self-love and unity.
In conclusion, Bishop Odetoyinbo emphasized that engaging in activities that bring collective shame to the nation and harm fellow citizens is detrimental to the hope for a better Nigeria. The Bishop’s message resonates as a call for leaders to prioritize the welfare of the people and uphold the principles of justice and integrity.
