Bishop Kukah: “The Papacy Is Not an Emilokan Affair”
Bishop Matthew Kukah has never been one to shy away from bold truths. In a recent interview on Channels Television’s Political Paradigm, Bishop Kukah the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto delivered a powerful message about Africa, religion, and the papacy.
His comments followed the historic installation of Pope Leo XIV in Rome. While some Africans have renewed calls for an African pope, Kukah had a clear warning:
“This is not an Emilokan affair.”
What Does “Emilokan” Have to Do with the Papacy?
The Yoruba phrase “Emilokan”, meaning “It’s my turn,” gained political fame in Nigeria. But Kukah says the idea doesn’t apply to the Church.
“The papacy is not about whose turn it is—it’s about moral weight, spiritual maturity, and global responsibility.”
In short, the Catholic Church is not a political party. Leadership is earned by spiritual strength—not geography or race.
“Let’s Win the World Cup First”
With his usual mix of wit and wisdom, Kukah added:
“Let’s win the World Cup first.”
It was more than a joke. He was sending a serious message: Africa must focus on real progress, not just global recognition. Symbolism without substance, he argued, is empty.
The Vatican Is Not for Show
Kukah described the Vatican as a place of deep meaning. It’s both a spiritual hub and a political meeting ground, where even enemies sit down for dialogue.
“For Africa to make a lasting impact, it must come with substance, not sentiment,” he said.
In his view, representation without readiness is not only premature—it’s counterproductive.
Religion and Politics in Nigeria: Still a Problem
The bishop didn’t stop with Rome. He turned his attention to Nigeria’s political-religious landscape—and he didn’t hold back.
“The Nigerian state has failed to put religion where it ought to be.”
He called out political leaders and traditional rulers who use religion as a tool for influence, yet refuse to accept its ethical weight. The result? Deep divisions, shallow leadership, and a confused moral compass.
The Northern Nigeria Factor
Kukah also addressed the ongoing unrest in Northern Nigeria. He pointed to historical wounds left by colonial rule, which broke down Islamic power structures and destabilised the region.
Understanding the past, he argued, is key to fixing the present.
African by Origin, Not by Agenda
In closing, Bishop Kukah left readers and viewers with a timeless lesson:
“You can have a pope who is African by origin, but the idea of an ‘African pope’ as a political milestone misses the essence of what the Church truly stands for.”
For Kukah, it’s not about the passport of the pope. It’s about the purpose of the papacy.
Bishop Kukah’s words are already making waves. His message is clear: Africa’s place in global affairs must be earned by vision, merit, and integrity—not entitlement.
Symbolic wins are not enough. The real victory lies in building strong institutions, nurturing spiritual leaders, and earning global respect the right way.
READ ALSO: Seyi Shay Reveals Why She Stopped Going To Church
Content Credit| Ajibola Emmanuel
Image Credit| vanguardngr.com
