Tuesday 2 June 2015

Catholic Archbishop urges President Buhari to re-introduce WAI


The Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev. Adewale Martins, on Monday, June 1, 2015 urged President Mohammadu Buhari to re-introduce the War Against Indiscipline (WAI) to sanitise the nation’s moral fabric.

Martins made the plea at the celebration of his 56th birthday held at the Holy Cross Cathedral, Lagos.
He said that reintroduction of the programme would enable Nigerians to get rid of corruption and ineptitude.
``One of the major hallmarks of the military government under the then Maj.-Gen. Muhammadu Buhari as Head of State was his strong aversion for indiscipline which led to the introduction of WAI.
``This no doubt helped to bring back sanity to the nation’s polity.
``Unfortunately, the programme was discontinued after he left office.
``The result is that 21 years after, indiscipline has regrettably entrenched itself further into the nation’s fabric,’’ Martins said.
He commended Buhari on his inaugural speech in which he vowed to confront headlong numerous issues facing the nation.
Martins urged the president not to recycle the ``old hands’’ but to appoint only credible, impeccable, and competent professionals into his cabinet.
According to him, it is heart-warming to note that many Nigerians have great confidence in the personal integrity and administrative ability of Buhari to reposition the nation for greatness.
``But, no matter how well his intention may be, he will need a good team to work with him to succeed.
``He should endeavour to do away with political jobbers who, from the past experiences, are only out to enrich themselves and their godfathers,’’ the cleric said.
Martins also urged Nigerians to give the newly elected office holders some time to settle down in their new offices.
He urged Nigerians to hold their leaders accountable when the need arises.
``The time for change has come for all Nigerians, irrespective of their political parties, religions, professions and ethical affiliation.
``We must join hands to work together to bring about the much needed positive change in all aspects of our lives,’’ Martins advised.
On his birthday celebration, the cleric thanked God for preserving his life and thanked everyone who came to felicitate with him for their presence.
Also speaking, the Catholic Bishop of Ilorin Diocese, Most Rev. Ayo-Maria Atoyebi, described Martins as ``a man who has enjoyed uncommon favour from God’’.
``I have never seen him get angry. I wonder if he does, and when serious issues arise that will naturally elicit reactions, Martins will react contrary to our expectations.
``Martins’ humility is humiliating, a man so highly placed, yet he relates sincerely and openly with all not, minding their status,’’ Atoyebi said. (NAN)

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