No Matter How You Get Power, Remember It’s God’s – Onaiyekan

Cardinal Onaiyekan Warns Politicians: Power Belongs to God

Naija News brings you the impactful words of Emeritus Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, who recently addressed politicians on the responsibility that comes with wielding power. No matter how power is obtained—whether through a coup, a rigged election, or even a Supreme Court decision—it ultimately belongs to God. Cardinal Onaiyekan emphasized that those in power must use it wisely to serve the people, not exploit them.

During a homily at the 17th edition of St. Patrick’s celebration at Holy Family Catholic Church in Life Camp, Abuja, Cardinal Onaiyekan delivered a powerful message. He specifically directed his words to Senator Victor Umeh, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Population and National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), who was also the chairman of this year’s event.

With a touch of humor and sincerity, Cardinal Onaiyekan greeted Senator Umeh, saying, “I see one of our esteemed leaders here today, Senator Umeh, the man with the big red hat. You’re most welcome. Senator Umeh doesn’t hail from Edo or Delta but represents Anambra Central in the Senate. We appreciate your presence and invite you to share this message with your fellow leaders. God has entrusted you with power, and He expects you to use it responsibly.

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“Listen closely, because power belongs to God. Whether you gained it by force, through manipulation, or even through legal channels, it’s still God’s power. This means you’ll be held accountable for how you use it. The people might seem powerless now, unable to challenge you, but God sees everything. His judgment is always fair and comprehensive. So, we urge you to act justly, seek fairness, and promote kindness and peace above personal or political interests.

“Senator, you’ve been entrusted with a message. How you deliver it is up to you. For me, as Cardinal, I’ve done my part,” Cardinal Onaiyekan concluded.

Politicians Running to Courts Instead of Seeking Forgiveness

Cardinal Onaiyekan also addressed the issue of forgiveness, urging humility when wrong is done. He lamented that instead of owning up to their mistakes, many politicians resort to court judgments to justify their actions. “Admitting wrongdoing is hard because of pride. We see people commit terrible acts and justify them, sometimes even getting court judgments to back them up. But if we don’t acknowledge our sins, how can we ask for forgiveness? And if we don’t seek forgiveness, how can God forgive us?” he asked.

Keep Speaking Out, God Hears Your Cry

Cardinal Onaiyekan encouraged Nigerians to continue voicing their concerns about the government’s policies that contribute to economic hardships. Politicians, he said, cannot silence the people’s frustration. Nigeria, he emphasized, has the resources to ensure every citizen lives comfortably. “You can’t stop people from crying out when they’re suffering. And remember, God hears every cry. Don’t grow weary of speaking out. I, for one, will keep crying out because this country has the means to make us reasonably happy. We have everything we need to live comfortably—not extravagantly, but enough for our needs. God provides for our needs, not our greed.

“We must continue to demand better. This nation can thrive if we work together and prioritize the common good over personal gain,” Cardinal Onaiyekan urged.

Preserve Your Culture, Let It Thrive

Cardinal Onaiyekan also reminded the Edo/Delta Catholic community in Abuja not to abandon their cultural heritage due to their Christian faith. “You don’t have to choose between your Christian faith and your culture. Both can coexist and enrich each other. This is what we’re celebrating today—embracing who we are, both spiritually and culturally,” he concluded.

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