At the recent Catholic Bishops’ gathering in Uyo, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom made a bold statement: “The world learns order from the Catholic Church.” His words sound sweet to the ears, but they also raise an important question for every Nigerian: if leaders truly learn from the Church, why does our nation still bleed from corruption, injustice, and disorder?
The Catholic Church possess values Nigeria desperately needs and these are discipline, structure, and accountability. From the parish council up to the Vatican, order is built into the Church’s life. Finances are accounted for, responsibilities are defined, and no priest is above correction. Imagine if our politics followed that same discipline. Imagine a Nigeria where public money is treated with the same seriousness as the offerings placed on the altar, where leaders see their office as service, not as a chance to enrich themselves.
The truth however, as painful as it may sound, is that many of our politicians sit in the front pews of our parishes every Sunday while clinging on disarray and moral decadence. They receive blessings, some even sponsor church projects, yet their lives outside the church walls tell another story. The Church may teach order, but too often, her children in government do not live it. That is why Governor Eno’s statement should not be left as mere praise. It must be taken as a challenge—first to leaders, and also to us as citizens.
Politics in Nigeria today is sick, not just because of bad policies but because morality is missing. Leaders who fear God will think twice before stealing from the poor. Leaders who learn from the humility of Christ will not use power to oppress. Leaders who listen to the Church’s voice will see their office as service, not as control. Yes, morality can heal our politics, but only if it moves from the pulpit to the practice of everyday governance.
For us in Onitsha Archdiocese, the lesson is clear. We must keep praying for our leaders, but we must also hold them accountable. We must continue to speak boldly, not flattering those in power but reminding them of their duty to the poor. And we, the faithful, must also live the order we celebrate at Mass in our markets, schools, and families. For how can we expect politicians to be honest if we ourselves cheat in small matters?
When leaders truly learn from the Church, Nigeria will begin to rise again.
