Rita Odafe
Rev Ignatius Kaigama
Most Rev Ignatius Kaigama, the Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Diocese, is calling on Nigerian leaders to acknowledge their wrongdoings and corrupt actions to pave the way for a brighter future in the country.
During a sermon at St. Charles Lwanga Catholic Parish in Apo, Abuja, on Sunday, July 21, the clergyman referred to a recent video of a Kenyan official openly confessing and apologizing for his corrupt deeds, pledging to return all assets and money obtained through illegal means.
Rev. Kaigama expressed his wish for current and former Nigerian political leaders to follow suit by coming forward with honesty to admit to past injustices and corruption committed against the Nigerian people.
He envisioned a scenario where all levels of leadership, from local government chairmen to presidents and heads of various institutions, would confess their wrongdoings and show willingness to return unlawfully acquired wealth for the betterment of the nation.
If such transparency and accountability were to prevail, Nigeria would witness significant improvements in infrastructure, eradication of poverty, and enhanced global reputation leading to increased foreign interest and investments in the country.
The Archbishop urged all leaders, regardless of their status, to prioritize the common good and emulate selfless service in the footsteps of Christ, guided by the intercession of the Virgin Mary and St. Joseph.
Rev. Kaigama highlighted the importance of leaders being attentive to the needs of the people, ensuring that wealth and power are not concentrated in the hands of a few while the majority suffer from poverty.
The Kenyan official, whose video clip inspired the sermon, tendered his resignation as a cabinet secretary, issuing a heartfelt apology to the people of Kenya for his involvement in greed, corruption, and arrogance.
He acknowledged receiving bribes, indulging in extravagant spending on luxury items, and pledged to return all ill-gotten gains to the state, emphasizing the need for accountability and a renewed commitment to serving the people with integrity in the future.
The official’s public confession serves as a powerful example of taking responsibility for one’s actions and striving for a more ethical and accountable leadership in the interest of the nation’s progress and the well-being of its citizens.
