A prominent Nigerian cleric has called on the respected Bishop of the Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah, to issue a fresh and unreserved apology to Christians and the nation. The demand stems from the Bishop's previous statements downplaying the targeted killings of Christians.
New Year Message Contains Strong Accusations
The call was made by Most Rev. Oluwaseun Fagbohun, the President of the African Confederation of Old Catholic Churches. He delivered this message in his New Year address on 2 January 2026. Fagbohun accused Bishop Kukah of maintaining a "troubling silence" despite being aware of terrorist activities within his own ecclesiastical jurisdiction in Sokoto State.
He stated that Kukah failed in his moral duty as a Christian leader by pretending not to know about the operations of insurgents, bandits, and Boko Haram elements. Fagbohun alleged these groups act openly and with impunity in areas under Kukah's spiritual oversight.
Denial of Persecution Called "Misleading"
Fagbohun strongly criticised Bishop Kukah for previously asserting that Christians were not being persecuted by criminal or insurgent groups in Nigeria. He described this position as misleading and completely inconsistent with the harsh realities on the ground.
He argued that numerous Christian communities have endured immense suffering, including:
- Displacement of families from their homes
- Loss of lives and livelihoods
- Destruction of churches and worship centres
- Severe psychological trauma
Fagbohun stressed that denying these experiences only adds insult to injury, undermining the victims' pain and weakening the moral authority of the Church when it is needed most.
Erosion of Trust and Call for Accountability
The cleric insisted that Kukah's comments and perceived inaction have significantly eroded public confidence in Christian leadership. This comes at a critical time when religious leaders are expected to speak truth to power and stand firmly with victims of violence.
"Bishop Kukah has not only betrayed the Christian faith but also the trust of the nation by pretending not to know that terrorists are operating within his jurisdiction," Fagbohun declared.
He acknowledged Kukah's international reputation as an advocate for social justice and unity but stated that recent developments have damaged his credibility. "His words carry weight globally, but it is clear he has not been faithful and truthful. Unless he apologises, we can no longer trust his words," Fagbohun added.
Fagbohun also questioned Kukah's frequent visits to the Presidential Villa, asking, "What does he go there to say? Is he claiming he doesn't know his jurisdiction is a headquarters for those killing Nigerians? His hypocrisy must stop." He concluded by insisting that Kukah must apologise again to Nigerians and the international community to restore confidence in his moral authority.
