A former Secretary-General of the Anglican Communion Worldwide, Bishop Josiah Idowu-Fearon, has challenged the Federal Government to stop denying the severe hardship confronting Nigerians. Speaking to journalists in Kaduna on Monday, the cleric stressed that millions of citizens are currently struggling to afford food, transportation, and other basic necessities due to recent economic reforms. He urged the government to openly acknowledge this reality and clearly explain its specific plans to address the ongoing economic crisis.

The bishop noted that his regular interactions with ordinary citizens have exposed him to the devastating severity of the current economic climate. He criticized official rhetoric that downplays the situation, stating that denying the citizens` pain amounts to being "economical with the truth." According to Idowu-Fearon, the reality on the ground is stark, with many Nigerians unable to afford balanced meals and some forced to survive on just a single meal per day.

The economic downturn is also reshaping social and religious life, with the bishop revealing that high transportation costs are now affecting church attendance. Many worshippers can no longer afford basic transport fares for motorcycles, taxis, or buses to attend services. Adding a personal note on the collapse of public infrastructure, the cleric lamented that his own residence had been completely without electricity supply for several consecutive days.

Expressing deep skepticism over national revenue distribution, Idowu-Fearon questioned the direct impact of the trillions of Naira reportedly allocated to state and local governments. He pointed to hyperinflation as a core driver of the crisis, sharing a shocking example of household items that previously cost ₦500 skyrocketing to ₦5,000. He demanded that the Minister of Finance and other authorities provide transparency on where these public funds are actually being spent.

Turning his attention to the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, the bishop cautioned religious leaders against getting too close to politicians. He warned that financial dependency on political figures corrupts spiritual leaders and compromises their ability to speak truth to power. He also advised traditional and religious leaders to encourage open democratic debates rather than dictating to their followers how they should vote.

On governance and national unity, Idowu-Fearon urged Nigerians to look beyond the religious labels of political candidates in future elections. He argued that the country does not simply need a leader who uses Islam or Christianity as a political tool, but rather individuals who genuinely practice the core values of their faith. He emphasized that neither major religion condones deep-seated corruption, tribalism, theft, or the exploitation of vulnerable people.

Finally, the cleric touched on regional politics and security, commending Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani for restoring a inclusive Muslim-Christian political arrangement that reflects the state`s diverse reality. While acknowledging noticeable security improvements in volatile areas like Birnin Gwari, the former peace commission chairman urged security agencies not to relent. He called on the government to maintain relentless pressure on criminal elements to ensure lasting peace across the region.