Kukah Urges Tinubu: End Mindless Killings for Government Legitimacy

• He stressed the urgency of rebuilding hearts, emphasizing justice for both criminals and victims

In a New Year message titled ‘Blood and Crucifixion On The Plateau,’ Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah of Sokoto Diocese directed a compelling message to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, asserting that the legitimacy of his government rests on putting an end to the senseless killings plaguing the nation.

Expressing weariness with vague explanations, Kukah emphasized, “Tinubu must realize that the legitimacy of his government hinges on resolving this issue and restoring our nation to us.”

Rejecting excuses like “asymmetrical war” and affirmations of being “on top of the situation,” Kukah urged for concrete actions. He demanded an end to the culture of investigation as excuses and called for transparent probes with publicized outcomes to build trust.

“We, citizens of Nigeria, feel collectively humiliated and betrayed by those collaborating with these murderers and a seemingly helpless government. Can we continue to believe that there is no long-term plan to take over the reins of power in the Nigerian state?” questioned Kukah.

Labeling the killers as having a purpose beyond ordinary murders, Kukah urged the Intelligence community to reveal their identities, locations, and goals. He pondered why the North had become a breeding ground for bloodletting, encompassing Boko Haram, banditry, and terrorism.

Commending the federal government’s responses to the tragedies, Kukah emphasized the need for more than just physical infrastructure in rebuilding affected communities. He stressed the urgency of rebuilding hearts, emphasizing justice for both criminals and victims.

While acknowledging the economic focus, Kukah emphasized that a secure foundation is essential for economic progress. He urged President Tinubu to restore communities and the nation, as citizens, elites, and the poor alike find themselves displaced.

In a final plea, Kukah called for the return of communities and the country, concluding with a heartfelt, “Mr. President, give us back our communities. Give us back our country.”