The Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Calabar has demanded the suspension of the 2023 census over insecurity.
Daily Report Nigeria reports that the national population and housing census is billed to commence next month.
The Diocese made the call in a statement issued at the end of its 47th Annual Synod at Wesley Cathedral, Calabar, Cross River State, which had the theme: “Contending for the faith, in consideration of the prevalent moral decadence and heresy in our society.”
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The statement co-signed by the Methodist Arch Bishop of Calabar, Most Rev. Chimezuo Nwankpa, Lay President, Dame Prof. Mirinda Dosunmu, KJW and Elder Offiong Unoh, Chairman of the Communique Committee, had nine points of call.
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Using the prevalent security challenges facing the country, where many regions have reportedly been taken over by terrorists groups, the church suggested for the the forthcoming 2023 census to be postponed.
The statement read in part;
“Taking into consideration, the high level of insecurity in the country, where some areas are being occupied by ‘Boko Haramists’, bandits and other undesirable elements, who visit mayhem and their reign of terror on the helpless inhabitants, it would be impossible for the enumerators to access such trouble spots.
“Synod calls for the putting on hold of the nationwide population census slated to commence on May 3, 2023 pending when the security will improve.”
The church also lamented the high level of unemployment rate in the country, advising that youths and unemployed acquire skills to earn dignified livelihood and escape poverty and frustration.
It further decried the difficult economic situation in the country, adding that the majority of the citizens exist on the breadline and called on the President Muhammadu Buhari to revive the economy.
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