In his Christmas message, Bishop Matthew Kukah of Sokoto Diocese conveyed a strong message to President Bola Tinubu, emphasizing that the weight of delivering on his promised “renewed hope” rests heavily on his shoulders. As the former governor of Lagos State assumes the position of leadership, Kukah believes that Nigeria must undergo a significant transformation.
Kukah asserts that Tinubu has had ample time to contemplate the answers to pressing questions that demand resolution. Furthermore, he emphasizes the need to eradicate the manipulation of religious, ethnic, or regional identities during Tinubu’s tenure.
Addressing the President, Kukah extends his congratulations and wishes him a joyful Christmas. He acknowledges Tinubu’s long-standing ambition to become the President of Nigeria, his advocacy for a new Nigeria through restructuring, and his relentless fight against military rule and other forms of dictatorship. Kukah reminds Tinubu of his pursuit of a fair and just society, as well as his efforts in building networks with various individuals, communities, and institutions.
Now that Tinubu occupies the driving seat of the nation, Kukah emphasizes that Nigeria must make a significant turnaround under his leadership. The Bishop emphasizes that Tinubu has no excuses before God or the Nigerian people, as both history and divine judgment will not forgive him if he fails to deliver. This moment is crucial, as the entire nation is watching and listening attentively. Kukah concludes by expressing prayers for a united country, with hopes that Tinubu will lead Nigeria towards a brighter future.
In reference to Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, the Bishop emphasized that Nigerians have nearly lost faith in the possibility of a government genuinely caring for them. He urged the President to ignite this hope once again.
The initial steps taken in policy decisions have sparked a mix of controversy, anxiety, and praise, which is to be expected. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that hope has dwindled within our nation.
Nigerians have almost given up hope in the belief that a government can truly prioritize their well-being. They have lost faith in politicians putting their interests first and effectively combating the cancer of corruption. Additionally, the seeds of division that have been sown have eroded our hope for unity. Therefore, I implore you, Mr. President, to reignite our hope.
We have witnessed some signs of renewed hope in your efforts to establish an inclusive government. It is imperative to put an end to partisanship. Nigeria’s problems run deep and are rooted in a culture of corruption that has become the very foundation of governance. This corrupt structure must be dismantled. Palliatives alone will not resolve Nigeria’s issues.
These problems are profound and structural. I urge you not to fear resetting the power dynamics, regardless of cultural or historical myths. We are weary of empty promises and tales. We yearn for tangible evidence that we can see and touch.
Furthermore, Kukah emphasized that the senseless killings, abductions, extortion, and kidnappings must cease. The sanctity and sacredness of human life must be restored. He also stressed that blasphemy laws have no place in a democracy.
Mr. President, the killings of Nigerians, regardless of the name they are given, must come to an end immediately. We cannot tolerate these senseless acts of violence, abductions, extortions, and kidnappings any longer. It is crucial to restore the sanctity and sacredness of human life. Blasphemy laws have no place in a democratic society. We are not governed by a theocracy.
Those who engage in any form of life-taking must be identified and punished accordingly. It is imperative to establish a system that compensates victims and holds states accountable, while ensuring that criminals and their accomplices are apprehended. Continuing on this path is not sustainable. The emergence of animosity in Gaza serves as a stark reminder of the dire consequences that arise from allowing distorted narratives to flourish within our society.
Furthermore, he urged the President to eliminate individuals of questionable character within the public service, who have transformed their roles into dishonorable endeavors.
“It is essential to purge the public service of criminals who have tarnished the opportunity to serve, turning it into a dishonorable enterprise. We acknowledge that there are countless honorable men and women who genuinely aspire to serve, but their efforts are stifled by the weight of corrupt individuals at the helm, who thrive on corruption as their lifeblood!
“This necessary intervention must occur if you are to achieve any of your aspirations in delivering much-needed services to our people,” stated Kukah.
