T he Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Diocese, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, has issued a powerful challenge to Nigerian leaders, urging them to publicly confess their sins against the people and return all assets acquired through corrupt means. His statement came during a sermon delivered at St. Charles Lwanga Catholic Parish in Apo, Abuja, on Sunday, July 21.
Archbishop Kaigama referenced a recent video clip of a Kenyan official who publicly confessed to corruption and pledged to return ill-gotten wealth. The cleric expressed a deep desire for Nigerian leaders, both past and present, to demonstrate similar courage and integrity.
“How I wish in Nigeria our present and past political leaders would come forward with such courage to tell the truth,” Kaigama said. “Imagine the impact if every level of leadership, from local government chairmen to the President, openly confessed their acts of injustice and corruption and returned the stolen funds.”
Kaigama emphasized that such honesty could transform Nigeria’s economic and social landscape. He envisioned a future where Nigeria would no longer need to borrow billions, where poverty and hunger would be addressed, and where Nigerians would take pride in their country’s development.
“Should this be honestly and transparently done, Nigeria could become a beacon of progress,” he continued. “Governors and ministers wouldn’t need to travel abroad to attract investors. Nigerians would proudly walk anywhere in the world with their heads held high.”
The Archbishop also highlighted that he chose to transcribe and share the Kenyan official’s video as an example of true leadership, contrasting it with the current state of Nigerian governance. The Kenyan official’s heartfelt apology and commitment to return stolen assets serve as a poignant reminder of the kind of leadership needed to address corruption and improve governance.
The Kenyan official’s statement included a public apology for greed, high-handedness, and other corrupt practices, and a pledge to return all bribes received during their tenure.
“Good evening the people of Kenya,” the official had said. “I tender my resignation as a cabinet secretary and offer my heartfelt apology for the greed and corruption that has plagued my time in office. I am committed to returning all bribes and property acquired through these means.”
Archbishop Kaigama concluded his message with a call for all Nigerians to work towards the common good, and for leaders to emulate the servant-leadership of Christ. He expressed hope that through prayer and genuine leadership, Nigeria could achieve a just and prosperous society.
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