Nigerians Are Suffering Because We Chose Darkness Over Light – Bishop Kukah

Bishop Hassan Kukah of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto has criticised Nigeria’s socio-political state, saying the country’s stagnation stems from its choice of “darkness over light.” He delivered this message during his 2024 Christmas address, emphasising how corruption, nepotism, and ethnic and religious divides have hindered the nation’s progress.

“Nigeria’s lack of visible and measurable progress is tied to the fact that we have chosen darkness rather than light,” Bishop Kukah stated.

A Call to Embrace Transparency and Accountability

In his address, Bishop Kukah highlighted the need for transparency and accountability in public service. He urged Nigerians to imagine the transformation the country could undergo if ethical governance and personal responsibility became the norm.

“Imagine if we let the light shine on our public service, our politics, our individual and community lives, and on our public institutions,” he said. “Imagine what Nigeria would be like if we chose light instead of darkness.”

Addressing Insecurity Through Economic and Social Reform

The cleric also linked insecurity to unemployment and violent religious extremism. According to Bishop Kukah, addressing these root causes is critical to reducing violence and restoring peace.

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“Insecurity cannot be overcome without addressing unemployment and violent religious extremism, which create conditions for violence,” he explained, while condemning extremists as criminals and murderers.

Religious Faith as a Source of Hope

Bishop Kukah encouraged Christians to remain steadfast in their faith despite systemic failures. He urged them not to lose hope or allow the nation’s challenges to justify unethical behaviour.

“We are the world’s light, a city on a hill that cannot be hidden,” he said. “We must not allow the weaknesses and failures of the Nigerian state to become an excuse for doing wrong.”

A Vision for a Better Nigeria

Bishop Kukah’s message calls for a collective effort to reject corruption, division, and extremism. By choosing “light,” he believes Nigeria can achieve measurable progress and become a model of hope and unity.