In 2023 It Was ‘Glitch’, We Don’t Know the Word We’ll Hear in 2027 – Kukah

Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, has once again stirred national conversation with his frank assessment of Nigeria’s political journey, democratic struggles, and deep-rooted social challenges. Known for his fearless engagement with power across both military and civilian administrations, Kukah maintained that Nigeria’s situation calls for honest reflection rather than self-deception or denial of reality.

Responding to concerns about the general direction of the country, the bishop said no conscientious citizen could truly be satisfied with Nigeria’s current state. Drawing inspiration from the writings of Saint Augustine, he explained that human beings are naturally restless and constantly aspiring for improvement. According to him, Nigeria’s challenge lies partly in its inability to fully appreciate progress as a gradual journey shaped by sacrifice across generations.

Kukah lamented that unlike other societies where older generations endure hardship to secure a better future for their children, Nigeria has struggled to sustain that inter-generational vision. He noted that many young Nigerians today find it difficult to understand the sacrifices their parents made because the expected progress has not materialised fast enough. Nevertheless, he insisted that the country has recorded achievements that deserve acknowledgment, even as much more remains undone.

On Nigeria’s overall development since independence, the bishop admitted that the nation is far behind where it ought to be. He expressed dissatisfaction with the persistence of corruption, political arrogance, and the apparent lack of urgency among the ruling elite to address citizens’ suffering. However, he commended Nigerians for remaining committed to democracy despite repeated disappointments, stressing that agitation must be tempered with restraint and maturity.

Addressing debates around Nigeria’s system of government, Kukah argued that the country must work with the system it has rather than endlessly lamenting past mistakes. He explained that Nigerians had little influence over the structures inherited from colonial rule or those imposed during military regimes. What matters now, he said, is the collective responsibility to make democracy functional and meaningful.

The bishop was particularly blunt on corruption, noting that while politicians often claim Nigeria is “not ripe” for democratic reforms, the country matured remarkably fast when it came to corrupt practices. He described democracy as a continuous work in progress, even in older democracies, and urged Nigerians not to romanticise other countries while abandoning the responsibility of fixing their own.

Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Kukah warned Nigerians not to be complacent. Recalling the 2023 polls, he noted how the term “glitch” suddenly entered the national vocabulary to explain electoral failures. “We don’t know which word we’ll hear in 2027,” he cautioned, urging citizens to remain vigilant, obtain their voter cards, and actively participate in the democratic process.

On the role of the Church, Kukah rejected claims that religious leaders have failed Nigerians. He argued that while the Church provides moral guidance and education, individuals must take responsibility for their actions. According to him, Nigerians too often outsource their civic duties while blaming institutions for societal failures.

The bishop also addressed the controversy surrounding claims that he denied Christian persecution in Nigeria. He firmly stated that he never said there was no genocide or persecution, describing such interpretations as a gross misrepresentation of his views. Kukah stressed that the reality of violence and injustice against Christians is undeniable and well-documented, adding that anyone suggesting otherwise is detached from reality.

In conclusion, Kukah reiterated that his engagement with government is not about personal attacks but about offering honest counsel aimed at national improvement. For him, the ultimate goal remains a Nigeria where leadership is guided by character, justice, and genuine concern for the dignity of all citizens.