•Archbishop John Cardinal Onaiyekan
Emeritus Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, has cautioned political leaders in the country against the misuse of power, emphasizing that they hold such authority in trust for God.
Speaking during a homily at the 17th edition of the St. Patrick Edo/Delta Catholic Community Feast Day celebration in Abuja yesterday, Cardinal Onaiyekan reminded government officials—whether from the executive or legislative branches—that their power ultimately belongs to God, reports Nigerian Tribune.
He warned that regardless of how leaders attain their positions — whether through military coups, election rigging, or Supreme Court rulings—they must remember that they will be held accountable before God.
“Power must be exercised with the awareness that those who wield it will one day give an account to God,” he stated.
The Cardinal noted that while citizens may feel helpless and unable to challenge those in authority, divine justice remains infallible.
“God’s record is always straight and comprehensive,” he affirmed.
Cardinal Onaiyekan used the presence of Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra North in the Senate and chairman of the year’s celebration, to send a message to the political class.
Addressing the senator, he said: “Senator Umeh, the man with the big red hat —you’re most welcome. Though you are not from Edo or Delta, politicians always find ways to advertise themselves.
“Through you, we are reaching out to all those in power. No matter how they acquired it — through a military coup, rigged elections, or Supreme Court rulings — power belongs to God.
“And because of that, you will give an account of how you use it. The people may seem helpless now, unable to challenge you, and you may think you are getting away with anything. But no way! God’s record is always straight and comprehensive.”
The cleric called on leaders to rule with justice, fairness, and kindness, prioritising the collective good over personal or political interests.
He urged Senator Umeh to relay this message to his fellow politicians.
“For me, as a Cardinal, I have done my part,” he concluded.
On the topic of forgiveness, Cardinal Onaiyekan stressed that no sin is beyond redemption.
However, he lamented that many political leaders refuse to admit wrongdoing, let alone seek forgiveness.
“To ask for forgiveness, one must first admit they have done wrong. But pride prevents many from doing so. We see people commit terrible acts, justify them, and even obtain court judgments to support their actions.”
He questioned how forgiveness could be granted if leaders refused to acknowledge their misdeeds.
“If we don’t admit our sins, how can we ask for forgiveness? And if we don’t seek forgiveness, how will God forgive us?” he asked.
The Cardinal also warned against suppressing the voices of suffering citizens.
He argued that when people endure hardship, they have the right to cry out, whether on social media or elsewhere.
“You cannot stop people from crying out when they are in pain. And know this —whenever they cry, the Lord listens.
“I am not tired of crying. I will continue to cry out because this country has enough resources to provide a reasonable standard of living for everyone—not to make everyone excessively rich, but to meet our needs. God does not provide for our greed, but He has provided for our needs.”
Drawing from biblical history, Cardinal Onaiyekan likened Nigeria’s situation to that of the Israelites in Egypt.
He reminded leaders that while the oppressed may lack the power to free themselves, divine intervention is inevitable.
Quoting Exodus, he said: “I have seen the affliction of my people in Egypt, and have heard their cry because of their taskmasters. I know their sufferings, and I have come down to deliver them.”
He emphasised that it was not the Israelites who organized an opposition party to overthrow their rulers but rather God who intervened.
“When the Israelites suffered, God personally intervened. He promised to deliver them and take them to land flowing with milk and honey. Leaders must remember that oppression does not last forever—divine justice always prevails.”
The Cardinal urged prayers for those in power, reminding them that governance is not an entitlement and that people are not their property.
Turning to the Edo/Delta Catholic community, he encouraged them to embrace both their cultural heritage and Christian faith.
“You do not have to choose between your faith and your culture. Both can and must enrich each other. That is what we celebrate here today.”
The Mass was followed by a celebratory event which attracted Edo/Delta Catholic faithful from over 50 Deaneries in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The Dein of Agbor, Benjamin Ikechukwu Kiagborekuzi I, was the special guest.
