In his Christmas message themed “Time to Reclaim Nigeria’s Greatness,” Bishop Mathew Kukah, the Bishop of Sokoto Catholic Diocese, has voiced his concerns about the inefficacy of ongoing government palliatives in addressing the deep-rooted challenges faced by Nigerians. Urging President Bola Tinubu not to shy away from resetting the template of power, Kukah emphasized the need for tangible evidence over promises.
Addressing the alarming issue of senseless killings, abductions, and kidnappings, Kukah called for an immediate end to such atrocities, stating that the sanctity of human life must be restored. He asserted that blasphemy laws have no place in a democracy and urged the government to fish out and punish those responsible for taking lives.
Expressing his views on the 2023 elections, Kukah highlighted the need for leaders to prioritize healing and reconciliation for the nation. He stressed the importance of building on past National Conferences rather than reinventing the wheel.
In a direct message to President Tinubu, Kukah congratulated him on achieving the presidency after years of advocating for a new Nigeria. However, he emphasized that the President now has a responsibility to end the instrumentalization of religious, ethnic, or regional identities. Kukah urged Tinubu to address the deep-seated problems of corruption that have plagued governance, emphasizing the importance of dismantling this “evil structure.”
Acknowledging the initial steps taken by the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Kukah called for an end to partisanship and urged the President to restore hope to the faces of the poor and vulnerable. He appealed for credibility in policy decisions and a deliberate effort to alleviate the suffering of the people.
In his concluding remarks, Kukah encouraged Nigerians, particularly Christians, to have faith in the country and remain committed to self-examination and repentance. He emphasized that true Christianity is not merely an association or club but requires a personal commitment to faith.
The Bishop’s message serves as a call for decisive action, accountability, and a renewed sense of hope for the nation’s future.
