Chinyere Abiaziem 
The Archbishop of the All Nations Evangelism Ministries (ANEM) in Benue State, Dr. Yimam Orkwar, yesterday lamented over the excruciating economic downturn in the country and called on Presidential Bola Ahmed Tinubu to listen to the cry of the citizenry by according priority to their welfare needs.
Archbishop Orkwar stated this while briefing newsmen at the end of the third quarter of the Synod of ANEM in Makurdi.
The cleric who is also the President, Christian Association of Clergies (CAC) in the country, particularly expressed concern over the increase in the price of fuel which he said has affected transport costs, increased inflation and created hardship in the nation.
He regretted that the hardship being witnessed was what led to the recent social unrest, loss of lives and destruction of property.
Archbishop Orkwar commended efforts by Governor Hyacinth Alia to contain insecurity in the Sankera axis of the state, adding that “traditional rulers, elits and community leaders who allegedly sponsor insecurity in the area and support criminal elements be exposed and delt with decisively to serve as deterrent to others.
He expressed concern over the prolonged stay of hordes of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in camps across the state, saying the development has adversely affected the health, education and upbringing of the children in the camps.
The Synod, Archbishop Orkwar noted also called on Christian faithful to pray for the peaceful conduct of the October 5th council polls in the state and reiterated that the success of the elections would improve leadership at the grassroot level.
