In a poignant Christmas message, the outspoken Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah, has once again delivered a searing critique of Nigeria’s socio-political and economic realities. Speaking on the occasion of Christmas, Bishop Kukah lamented the pervasive suffering in the country, asserting that Nigerians are enduring hardship because the nation has consistently “chosen darkness over light.”
In a statement shared by Sahara Reporters via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the revered cleric expressed disappointment over the choices made by both leaders and citizens that have plunged the country into its current state of turmoil. The post, accompanied by a link to the full report, read:
“Christmas: Nigerians Are Suffering Because We Chose Darkness Over Light — Bishop Kukah | Sahara Reporters.”
Bishop Kukah, known for his bold and unapologetic sermons, used the Christmas season—a time symbolic of hope and renewal—to call for introspection among Nigerians. He argued that the systemic failures in governance, widespread corruption, and lack of accountability have perpetuated cycles of poverty and despair for millions of citizens.
Drawing on the spiritual essence of Christmas, the Bishop urged Nigerians to embrace light—symbolizing truth, justice, and selflessness—over the metaphorical darkness that has characterized the nation’s trajectory. He emphasized the need for unity, genuine leadership, and a collective resolve to overcome the challenges facing the country.
“Our choices as individuals and as a nation have consequences. When we prioritize greed, impunity, and divisiveness, we are, in essence, rejecting the light and embracing the darkness,” Bishop Kukah reportedly said.
While the cleric painted a stark picture of Nigeria’s challenges, he also injected a note of hope. He called on Nigerians to rekindle their faith, work together, and demand better governance. “Christmas reminds us that light will always overcome darkness if we let it. The birth of Christ is a call to each of us to become agents of positive change,” he stated.
Bishop Kukah’s Christmas messages have consistently stirred debates, with many lauding his courage to speak truth to power, while others accuse him of politicizing his sermons. However, his words resonate deeply with millions of Nigerians who grapple daily with economic hardship, insecurity, and a lack of basic infrastructure.
As Nigeria navigates its path forward, the Bishop’s message serves as a sobering reminder of the consequences of past choices and the urgent need for a renewed commitment to justice, equity, and good governance.
For the full report, visit Sahara Reporters via this link.
PIONEER NEWS 