The member representing Obingwa-West State constituency in Abia State House of Assembly (ABHA), Hon. Erondu Uchenna Erondu Jnr, has felicitated with Nigerians on the occasion of 64th Independence Day celebration.
The lawmaker who is also the Chairman, House Committee on Public Service, in a release signed by his spokesperson, George Egejuru and made available to newsmen on Tuesday, congratulated Nigerians on Independence Day celebration, acknowledging their resilience in sustaining democracy.
The former Special Adviser to the immediate past Governor of Abia state, decried the high level of economic hardship ravaging the country, adding that sluggish economic growth and rising inflation in Africa’s biggest economy have pushed an additional 24 million Nigerians into poverty within five years, according to the World Bank reports.
He explained that the number of poor rose from 79 million in 2018 to 104 million in 2023, with urban poor—more exposed to inflation—increasing from 13 to 20 million.
Hon Erondu added that poor people in rural areas increased from 67 to 84 million, a figure he described as disheartening and a huge threat to society.
He called for collaborative efforts from leaders at all levels to tackle the menace, enjoining Nigerians to show more resilience amidst the current economic difficulties.
The former chairman of Obingwa Local Government Area, also harped on the need for peaceful co-existence of Nigerians irrespective of religion and ethnicity, noting that the diversity of Nigeria should serve as its source of strength.
He expressed optimism that Nigeria and Nigerians have all the potential to achieve greatness if they harness all their God-given resources.
Erondu Jnr urged Nigerians not to despair but to continue to pray for the country and their leaders at all levels, expressing hope that there is always light at the end of the tunnel.
The lawmaker, who further appealed to citizens to shun social vices, wished Nigerians happy independence day celebration.