CAN Urges Leaders to Show Empathy

President of CAN, Daniel Okoh, has called on political leaders to adopt a more empathetic and people-focused approach to governance in response to the growing economic hardship facing Nigerians.

In a statement to mark Palm Sunday, Okoh said the current socio-economic realities demanded leadership that prioritised restraint, compassion and the collective good, as citizens grappled with rising living costs.

He noted that global tensions, particularly involving Iran, Israel and the United States, were already impacting Nigeria through increased fuel prices, transportation costs and food inflation, thereby worsening the burden on households.

“For many Nigerians, the concern is immediate—how to cope and stay afloat. In such moments, people need reassurance and a sense of stability,” he said.

Drawing from the symbolism of Palm Sunday, Okoh emphasised that leadership should be guided by humility and a commitment to easing the pressures faced by citizens.

“It is a time for decisions that reduce hardship, calm anxieties and promote unity,” he added.

He also urged Nigerians, especially young people, to remain hopeful despite prevailing challenges, calling for renewed commitment to peace, solidarity and national cohesion.

At the same time, the Chairman of CAN, Kwara State  branch,  Rt. Rev. Sunday Adewole, yesterday, called on the federal government to prioritise public safety to bring peace and development to the doorsteps of the populace.

Adewole stated this in Ilorin while speaking with newsmen on the celebration of this year Palm Sunday.

Adewole said,  “Protecting lives and property must remain a top priority of the government so as to return peace to the country.”

He highlighted economic challenges affecting households and businesses, including the high cost of fuel and persistent electricity shortages.

He, therefore, urged the government to provide  policies that would address the issues in order to alleviate the sufferings of the populace.

Also speaking at the event, Governor  Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, urged citizens to pray for the progress and development of the state and the nation. 

Represented by the Senior Special Assistant on Religious Matters, Reverend Timothy Oluwagbemig Akangbe,  the governor encouraged the people to show love, humility, and solidarity with one another.

Former CAN Secretary in the state, Pa Olusola Ajolore, in his remarks, called for a stronger approach to tackling insecurity. He  urged governments to use security votes effectively to prevent loss of lives and property.