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Learning from Political Rivalries: Kukah's Advice to Nigerian Politicians

In a thought-provoking discussion, Bishop Matthew Kukah, the Catholic Bishop of the Sokoto Diocese, offered some sage advice to Nigerian politicians. He urged them to take inspiration from the enduring rivalry between former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. This long-standing "cat-and-mouse" relationship, according to Kukah, is a testament to the resilience and strength that can exist even amidst intense political competition.

Nigeria's Democracy: A System That Works for the Few

Bishop Kukah expressed deep concern about the state of democracy in Nigeria, pointing out that it often seems to benefit only a select few. Speaking at a colloquium organized to celebrate the 60th birthday of former Imo State Governor Emeka Ihedioha, Kukah highlighted the pressing need for reform. The event, held at the Abuja Intercontinental Hotel and chaired by Obasanjo, provided a platform for Kukah to delve into the complexities of African democracy.

A Keynote Address on the State of African Democracy

In his keynote speech titled "Is Democracy Failing in Africa?" Kukah passionately argued that the Nigerian constitution places undue pressure on the judiciary. He empathized with judges who are often caught in the crossfire of political battles, tasked with delivering justice under immense scrutiny. The bishop emphasized that the inherited democratic system, though not originally designed for Africa, is not entirely irrelevant to the continent's needs.

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He elaborated, "We inherited a system that wasn't crafted for us, but we can't dismiss it as irrelevant. It's crucial to recognize the distinctions between democracy in Asia and democracy in Africa. I genuinely feel for the judges in our system. During the last election, even I, a mere bishop, was bombarded with calls from people urging me to intervene in various disputes. The pressure on judges to uphold justice was palpable."

The Need for Reform and Justice in Democracy

Kukah stressed the urgency of cleaning up the mess that plagues Nigeria's democratic process. He argued that democracy is about more than just procedures; it's about ensuring justice for all. He remarked, "Democracy and its principles are subject to constant debate and contestation. There are certain truths that are divinely given and beyond human control. For instance, the enduring relationship between Obasanjo and Atiku mirrors a Catholic marriage—full of quarrels but never breaking up. This resilience is something we should strive for in our political sphere."

Concluding his address, Kukah pointed out a significant challenge facing Nigeria: the weaponization of religion. He noted, "No constitution can surpass the teachings of the Bible and the Koran. Yet, we continue to live in sin. The misuse of religion for political gain is a major obstacle to fostering genuine democracy in our nation. It's time we reflect on these issues and work towards a more inclusive and just society."