By Milcah Tanimu
The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Rev. Father Mathew Kukah, expressed his surprise at the comments made by former President Muhammadu Buhari’s ministers regarding the former president and his government. He clarified that he held no personal grudge against President Buhari and that his criticisms were not intended to be disrespectful or personal.
Speaking in an interview on Arise Television, Kukah emphasized that his primary concern was Buhari’s approach to managing the country’s diversity. He mentioned that he had conversations with former ministers who served in Buhari’s government but did not reveal their names. He expressed astonishment at what these former ministers were saying about their experiences in the government, indicating that it was a topic for another time.
Kukah acknowledged that Buhari had completed his term and had left office, and he respected the fact that his critiques were not personal. He also mentioned his respect for Femi Adesina and suggested that Adesina could take on a pastoral role at the Foursquare Gospel Church in Daura, where he could be closer to his “Godfather.”
Regarding the process of selecting leaders, Kukah highlighted its limitations, especially the reliance on governors to recommend ministers and the involvement of external agencies in decision-making. He emphasized the need for a more organized and efficient approach to governance.
Kukah concluded by asserting that those in power should be held accountable, and institutions and instruments of engagement should be transparent. He stressed the importance of clarifying public policies and articulating the direction in which the country should be heading.