Archbishop Kaigama Calls for Nigerian Leaders to Confess Corruption and Return Looted Funds

 

The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Diocese, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, has called on Nigerian leaders to openly confess their corrupt actions and return looted funds to improve the nation. His appeal was made during a sermon at St. Charles Lwanga Catholic Parish in Apo, Abuja, on Sunday, July 21.

Drawing inspiration from a recent video of a Kenyan official who publicly confessed to corruption and promised to return all illicitly acquired properties and money, Archbishop Kaigama urged Nigerian leaders to show similar courage.

“How I wish in Nigeria our present and past political leaders would willingly come forward with such courage to tell the truth, and like Zacchaeus, honestly confess their acts of injustice and corruption committed against ordinary Nigerian citizens,” he said.

Archbishop Kaigama envisioned the profound impact such confessions would have if leaders, from local government officials to high-ranking politicians, openly admitted their wrongdoings and returned stolen wealth. He believes that honest and transparent confessions would eliminate the need for Nigeria to borrow billions of dollars, reduce hunger and poverty, and significantly improve the country's infrastructure and social amenities.

“Our governors and ministers wouldn’t need to travel abroad to woo investors. Nigerians would walk proudly anywhere in the world with their heads held high,” he added.

The Archbishop prayed for Nigerian leaders to be granted the heart to work for the common good, invoking the intercession of Mother Mary and St. Joseph. He emphasized that true leaders should be sensitive to the needs of the people, contrasting this with the current situation where many Nigerians suffer in poverty while a few enjoy immense luxury.

The Kenyan official’s heartfelt apology highlighted the gravity of corruption's impact on society. He acknowledged the misuse of power and resources, confessed to receiving bribes, and pledged to return all ill-gotten gains to the state. The official also urged the police to uncover hidden crimes and ensure accountability.

Archbishop Kaigama's message is a clarion call for integrity and transparency in leadership. By addressing corruption and returning looted funds, Nigeria can pave the way for a brighter future for all its citizens.