How can we go to sleep when our Nation is burning

Introduction

The state of the Nation seems terribly chaotic. We seem to be sliding into frightening recklessness and dictatorship. Unending stories and the ugly trend of abductions and kidnappings is unabated. Hopelessness, faithlessness and depression are sadly on the increase. We live in a world darkened by sin, evil, violence, injustice, hatred, war and death. We are in a terrible state of untidiness and neglect, filthy and dirty. Our people are experiencing the darkness of fear, frustration, sorrow, disappointment, gloom, bitterness and despair. How can we safely go to sleep with the lingering cases of insecurity and tales of abductions and kidnappings in our land?

Our Vulnerability and Painful Stories of Woes

Daily our people are abducted and killed by bandits. Perpetrators of this heinous crime go un apprehended and unpunished. Kidnappers not only capture people on the road, market places, farm lands, schools and offices but even in the comfort of their homes.

Nigerians have become so vulnerable – victims of abuse, trafficking, abduction, kidnapping, violence and brutalization among others. The Good Shepherd Major Seminary was invaded and attacked by bandits (gun men) Wednesday January 8, 2020 at about 10pm, with four Major Seminarians, Philosophy students captured in an operation that lasted less than half an hour, while three were eventually release, one was brutally murdered. Chinwe Faith Onyiwara, a poor Youth Corper serving in a village in Epe, on the outskirts of Lagos was captured November 29, 2019 and her abductors called the parents to pay the ransom of fifty million for her release. The unfortunate girl was kept in a swampy forest for seven days in a dehumanizing condition before she was rescued by a Police team from the Lagos State Police Command.

 In Niger State, the District Head of Madaka, Alhaji Zakari Yau, his wife as well as the village head of Koki and five others were kidnapped by bandits. The strolled into the Communities and picked eight people. Security operatives were reported to have arrived hours after the bandits had disappeared. Dr Idris Abubakar, a lecturer with the Federal University, Dutsinma (FUDMA), Katsina Sate was abducted at his residence in Shagari Low Cost Housing Scheme in Kaduna State since August last year, and they have neither called for ransom nor disclosed any reason for his abduction.  Similarly, Kidnappers walked into Engravers College, Kakau Daji, Chikun Local Government area of Kaduna State and captured six female students and two staff of the College who spent 23 days in the dungeons of the Kidnappers, but later released with huge ransom paid to secure their freedom. These are the stories in Nigeria. It continues unabated. Despite the efforts by the security operatives in carrying out air and land surveillance with the sole aim of tracking the bandits terrorizing our people. The abductors go scot free to enjoy their loot and booty without arrest or anyone apprehending and challenging them.

The story is same from Abia to Zamfara, Edo to Ondo, Cross River to Jos, Enugu to Borno States where terrible kidnappings and scandalous killings have been going on unchallenged and unrestrained by our security operatives.

Just recently there were massive killings on the Maiduguri-Damaturu highway when Boko Haram attacked innocent travelers who were stranded and torched over a dozen vehicles, including trucks conveying foodstuff and cement.

Some contributing factors

There is great crisis in the land and the times are really turbulent. For the past months now, we have had troubles. Indeed, we have had very disturbing brutal hostilities and scandalous killings. Just when you think that things are fairly calm and gradually stabilizing, along comes the violent eruption of fresh attacks, hostilities and brutalities, taking their toll massively on the human life, and spreading ill will and confusion around the nation.

Apparently, the threat to our national security remains crucial and critical. Barely a day passes without bloodshed, violence and bombing by extremists, anarchists and terrorists. The news agenda over the last couple of weeks had been dominated by senseless killings and serious terror plots and threats of abductions and kidnappings. Our hearts go in sympathy to the of hundreds of people, including innocent children, women and the elderly killed in the North East crisis, with thousands wounded, and so many others rendered homeless, and without food and shelter.

The contributing factors of Nigeria security challenge are numerous ranging from greed, indiscipline, crisis of identity, struggle for supremacy, unpatriotic attitudes, manipulative and dictatorial tendencies to the unholy desires for power, fame and money. These has left us totally disillusioned, tormented, confused and miserable. Anxiety, fear, worry, depression, tension, suspicion and mistrust are written upon the faces of our people. None of our institutions, whether traditional, religious, social, economic and political is exonerated from these problems. The terrible tendencies to demonization, criminalization, stigmatization, tribalization, politicization, militarization, weaponization, brutalization and victimization has kept us down and we seem to be everywhere crying out in desperation, what can we do to be saved?

The way forward

Today, there is an urgent need of a joint action among traditional, political and religious leaders of the world to speak with a united voice a message of hope, reconciliation and peace; and to solidify the universal campaign for human dignity, freedom, equity, solidarity and peace in the world. We must unite to stop these brutal killings of our brothers and sisters, and the scandalous destruction of property, by working together to eradicate violence from the hearts of our people, and striving to create environments of safety and peace. We must fight against all anti-democratic forces fanning embers of violence through hate and inflammatory speech. Although the times are really turbulent, fogs are not clearing and the dust not yet settled, there is hope. I am deeply convinced that whatever be the cause, the way forward and the great challenge before us is repentance. Now is the time to repent.

Conclusion

It is a pity that Nigeria has today become a jungle with ongoing massive invasion of most of the States in the Central North by terrorists and with all manners of criminality without apprehension by the security operatives. Victims lucky to survive and their families have to pay huge ransom to secure their freedom. The question is when will the security agents apprehend these killers and culprits to bring them to justice? With this serious security threats, we urge to Federal Government to reexamine our security architecture and apparatus and rise to its responsibility by taking decisive steps to provide and equip the police with modern communication network and restore the integrated radio satellite communication. This senseless killing of our innocent and defenseless citizens must stop now. Oh God arise and save Nigeria!

SPEAKING WITH A UNITED VOICE MESSAGE OF HOPE AND PEACE IN A WORLD OF TERRORISM

‘Few of us realize the wonderful privilege of living; the blessing we inherit, the glories and beauties of the universe which is our own if we choose to have it so; the extent to which we make ourselves what we wish to be; or the power we possess of securing peace, of triumphing over pain and sorrow – Sir John Lubbock, British Statesman, Scientist and Writer.

Introduction

 

Today we live in world of powerless refugees and vulnerable people whose lives are fractured by tyranny, greed and fear. Our world is overshadowed by terrible threats of international terrorism involving insurgents, militias, guerrillas and terrorists. Extremist suicide bombers and terrorists blow themselves up in order to kill innocent men and women around the world. The story is same from Iraq to Pakistan, France to Belgium, and from Libya to Nigeria. Violence has compounded injustice which has in turn fuelled disorder and recklessness. The threat of Aids and Ebola continue to ravage an impoverish Africa and our people are now in captivity and are tyrannized by wickedness and evil.

 

Endless difficulties

 

Job pressures, family problems, relational conflicts, security, environmental and health issues, financial struggles and global economic recession seem to be sending our life down the drain. In fact, the list of our overwhelming difficulties is endless. It is really hard to see the light at the end of a dark tunnel now that some sort of horrific madness and reckless feverish political activities in form of electioneering campaign has occupied the centre stage. Let us pause and watch out, and not be driven by selfish political and manipulative interests which will exploit our insecurities and fears and keep us down. Our hearts are heavy and our shock deep and penetrating over the recent tragic incident of the senseless and brutal killings of hundreds of our innocent citizens and the scandalous destruction of property running into millions of naira that occurred at Baga, Nigeria. Over  a million have been displaced and forced to flee their homes. Villages are bombed indiscriminately, torture and killing of people is a common place and burning houses before putting their owners to death. There has been uncountable allegations of murderous atrocities of unprecedented scale leveled against the terrorist groups. The United Nations Secretary of State John Kerry branded the Boko Haram massacre in Northern Nigeria a ‘crime against humanity’. ‘What they have done is a crime against humanity, nothing less’.[1]

 

The  Global Trauma of our People

 

In fact, the level of trauma among our helpless children, women and internally displaced persons (IDPs) is unprecedented. Terrorism and insurgency have unleashed terrible and horrible pains and agony on our land, made widows of our mothers and sisters, orphans of our children, destroyed countless schools and displaced people from their communities, and barracks and armories are looted. We have experienced and are still experiencing conflicts between races, ethnic groups, classes, generations, religions and political ideologies, which are threatening global peace and security. We face the reality of famine, genocide and violence. The international community today is confronted with unprecedented humanitarian challenges. How do we confront the horrors of war, violence and murder? Even as I write, our hearts go in sympathy and prayers to all those who have been affected in any way by the tragic loss of life; and we pray for change and conversion of the planners, perpetrators and executors of these atrocities.

 

The Urgent task for building Peace

The task for building peace can seem too great sometimes, but it is not impossible. We really need a rebirth of our minds and attitudes in a culture that celebrates vengeance rather than mercy. We need to stand united to put an end to brutal tyranny of terrorism causing horrendous destruction around the world. It is pertinent to state here that violence has no place in democracy. It makes a mockery of every democratic principle. We cannot trade evil for evil. The Preamble to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights stresses this fact thus: ‘Recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace in the world; disregard and contempt for human rights have resulted in barbarous acts which have outraged the conscience of mankind…(and)… it is essential, if man is not to be compelled to have recourse, as a last resort, to rebellion against tyranny and oppression, that human right should be protected by the rule of law (Preamble to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights).

It is really time to drum home the great message of peace in and with God to the peoples and governments of the world. It is quite certain that the root of peace, as that of conflict and war, lies in the human heart. It is the arena where the fight against greed, exploitation, jealousy, hatred, violence and evil instincts that unceasingly threaten peace takes place. We have to learn to use our God given potentials and power to handle conflicts, build cooperation, understanding and harmony among our people more effectively.

United Voices of Hope and Peace

In these days of heightened extreme terrorist activities and madness, we want to speak with a united voice a message of hope and peace, and to see ourselves as part of the universal campaign for human freedom, solidarity and peace. The words of Gerald Brown, the Provincial Superior of the Sulpician Fathers in the United States in his presidential address in Milwaukee to the Assembly of the Conference of major Superiors of men hold sway for us: ‘I challenge all of us to join forces, on a national and international levels, and most especially in cities, towns and neighborhoods, in a corporate effort to eradicate violence from the hearts of our brothers and sisters, to create environment of safety and peace, and to change those structures that hold our young people in social and psychological bondage’.

When asked recently by several journalists about the comments by Turkish President Erdoan regarding Islamophobia in the West. Pope Francis said he asked him and other leaders to directly condemn the terrorist attacks by Islamic radicals. "I think that... Sincerely, I think we can't say that all Muslims are terrorists. It's not true, just as we cannot say that all Christians are fundamentalists, though there are some... It's true that, faced with these terrorist attacks, not only in the Middle East, but also in Africa, many react by saying 'If this is true Islam, it makes me mad.' "I told the President (Erdoan) that it would be good for all Islamic leaders, whether political, religious or academic leaders, to speak clearly and condemn the attacks. This will help the majority of Muslim people to say 'No.' It needs to come directly from leaders.”[2] (Rome Reports).

 

Also as part of his trip to Sri-Lanka, the Pope met with leaders of the area's major religions. Buddhism, Hinduism. Islam and Christianity. He said, "It is my hope that inter-religious and ecumenical cooperation will demonstrate that men and women do not have to forsake their identity, whether ethnic or religious, in order to live in harmony with their brothers and sisters.” Furthermore, the Pontiff highlighted that religion should never be used as a tool for violence. "For the sake of peace, religious beliefs must never be allowed to be abused in the cause of violence and war. We must be clear and unequivocal in challenging our communities to live fully the tenets of peace and coexistence found in each religion, and to denounce acts of violence when they are committed.”[3] (Rome Reports).

 

The United Nations Special Representative for West Africa, Mohamed Ibn Chambas has said the four nations most threatened by Boko Haram must put aside mutual distrust and agree on a command structure and strategy for a fledgling regional force if they want to defeat the militants. ‘It is clear now that… the countries should not be left to tackle it individually… The challenge is to have the political will to agree and come to an understanding’.[4]

 

Conclusion

Words are inadequate to describe the utter psychological trauma, anguish, misery and pains millions of people in the world have to endure at this crucial time. The situation is desperate as people now generally live in fear because of terrorism and violence; and people are being killed innocently, with many others feeling unsaved and unprotected.

It is sad to note that while the living standard of our people in Nigeria is deteriorating rapidly, corruption is flourishing. In these days of heightened political activities sequel to the upcoming presidential polls, we must be resolved to refrain from cruelty, oppression and corruption, and stand up for truth, human dignity, freedom, justice and peace in our society. The youth must reject the life of slavery, violence and destruction and the culture of hatred, persecution, discrimination and marginalization. I want to believe that the Boko Haram insurgency in the North, activities of area boys in the South-West, MASSOB in the East, Militant groups in the Niger Delta area are all rooted in the failure of government to deliver basic services, reduce poverty and create employment.

As we search for a long time stable political and spiritual solution, we must brace up for positive and constructive actions that will help solve the urgent problems of our day – the scandalous and unfortunate disposition to venture into immoral and senseless wars, terrorism, destruction of the environment, and poverty. We must work together to end the madness of suicide bombings, political assassinations, terrorism, anarchy, lawlessness, kidnappings and the indiscriminate murder of our brothers and sisters across the globe. Let us stop heating the polity and creating a tensed atmosphere through our wild thinking and inconsiderate utterances all fanning embers of division and disaffection among our people. If we say our nation is not working and growing, we all have a part to play, instead of blaming everyone else, let us stand united in opposition to all forms of terrorism and make efforts to better our nation. Now is the time to act.

 

Revd Fr Michael Adefemi Adegbola, Vicar General Catholic Diocese of Kano, Nigeria 2015.

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[1] Daily Sun Friday January 16, 2015, p.16

[2] Rome Reports December 2014

[3] Rome Reports January 2015

[4] Daily Sun January 16, 2015

Nigeria on the march and time for action

“If anyone of you wants to be first, he must be the slave of all, for even the Son of Man did not come to be served, he came to serve and to give his life to redeem many people.” (Mark 10: 44-45)

Introduction

The political season is here again and politicians are warming up and spending more on online, posters and bill board advertisements to promote themselves and their manifestoes. If you are frightened and  running out of breathe as we approach the electioneering period come 2015, do not fret or entertain the fear of being crushed and defeated. Give yourself the assurance that God is in total control and you are in His hands who knows and holds your future and destiny. Remember that every moment of our lives is totally dependent on His benevolence and providence. Let us stand united and work together as people of hope, dreams and promise to shape our future. Our chaotic situation is the reflection of ourselves. We must challenge the atmosphere of hopelessness, hypocrisy, sycophancy and falsity that surrounds our governance. This is the time for a collective action of innovative strategy to combat corruption, tyrannical and oppressive structures that hold our people in bondage. We have the power to shape the civilization that we want with strong will and determination.

Electioneering period

Yes, the months are rolling by and 2015 general election in Nigeria is fast approaching. It is a good time to consider the concept of servant leadership which will benefit us greatly as a people and nation. It is a serious business and not a matter to treat so shabbily with a wave of hand because we are all players and stakeholders in the task of nation building. The electioneering period is usually characterized by acrimony, controversy, and debates by disappointed antagonists and analysts which are vocal, divisive and bitter; there are accusations and counter accusations by party defectors, irregularities of different kinds, political thuggery, hooliganism, gangsterism, massive lootings, assassination, abductions, kidnappings, political intimidation and victimization, witchcraft, ritual murder and mysterious deaths, and high level corruption. We must stop oppressing the people whom we are called to govern, stop whipping up ethnic and religious sentiments and prejudice, and stop playing on the fear and ignorance of our people. Watch out this season and do not be part of this vicious cycle. We should rather cherish the ideal of a democratic and free society in which persons will live together in peace, harmony and with equal opportunities.

Attractive Public Offices

Unfortunately, public offices in Nigeria have been made so attractive that desperate political aspirants see it as a do or die affair. We see that virtually everyone wants to be elected at the local government, state or national levels to occupy a desired office. They go at any length, by hook and crook to do anything in order to occupy these positions not with the right motive of selfless service for nation building, but personal comfort and self-aggrandizement. Yet, our land is confronted by the greatest odds – overwhelming ignorance, internal tension and strife which are often destructive, artificial barrier between the rich and poor and along ethnic and religious divide. In many place classrooms are overcrowded and curricula outdated, teachers and workers are under paid, we see starved on the streets, thousands slaughtered in violence, and wealth is lavished heavily on armaments and security. Today we are so insistent on venerating our political leaders who ought to be public servants. They live in luxurious places, wear the finest clothes, drive the nicest cars, travel in special jets, stay in exotic hotels, are surrounded by servants and special aids and receive jumbo salaries. Yet the greatest of all leaders, Jesus Christ came to the earth not to be served, but to serve others. He said: “If anyone of you wants to be first, he must be the slave of all, for even the Son of Man did not come to be served, he came to serve and to give his life to redeem many people.” (Mark 10: 44-45).

A time for Broken Promises

Another time for promises by politicians is here again. Numerous promises are made every day, every week, every month and every year. Unfortunately, though are not kept. They are broken far too easily when things get tough or when minds are changed. God on the other hand keeps all His promises. He is same yesterday, today and forever. This is clearly echoed in (Hebrews 13:8). We all live under the umbrella of God’s goodness and when circumstances and feelings tell us otherwise, we have to rely on what we know – to see evidence of His goodness in all situations. When life is pleasant, we find praising God easy because His kindness is abundantly evident. However, we have difficulty recognizing pain and trouble as an expression of His loving care. We need to trust the Holy Bible which tells us that the Lord has stored up goodness for those who trust and obey Him. Our God is a God of promise and fulfillment. So leaders after the heart of God should  also be people of promise and fulfillment.

Trust as foundation of leadership

From the dawn of history to this day, the control of power has played a major role in the world. Our world leaders are still very much in business consulting, dialoguing and negotiating even after a difficult period of transition and evolution in the concept of repressive, tyrannical and dictatorial leadership to our modern liberal and democratic model. This shows that leadership is dynamic and Trust is the foundation of leadership. A leader can build trust by consistently exemplifying competence, connection and character. A leader must have the ability to navigate the people through rough waters or else he is liable to sink. Nigeria on the march looks for simply God fearing leaders, with strong will and commitment for addressing the real concerns, interests, needs and aspirations of the people.

Politician as a soldier and servant

A politician is like a soldier and servant. To be one you must be prepared to endure all kinds of difficulties such as hunger, exposure to extreme weather conditions, hostilities, sleepless nights, zero comfort, long distance from family and loved ones and even be prepared to die on the battle field. The servant politician should live like servant, as well as talk like one, and not assert authority or live ostentatious lifestyle. Leading well is not all about enriching ourselves but empowering others. We should realize that leadership from a Christian perspective is a matter of good and responsible stewardship.

Real life today to common Nigerians

Life to common Nigerians have become poor, miserable and rough. Everywhere you go in the length and breadth of our land you see pervasive poverty, institutional corruption, the vain superiority and supremacy of the ruling class leading to monopoly of high key positions, thus giving rise to a clique of wealthy and powerful rulers; you hear the cry of the oppressed deprived of justice; you see the fear of oppression and domination by the majority tribe and religion against the minorities; you also notice general cynicism regarding governance as a result of the growing gap between the rulers and the ruled, the rich and the poor, and lack of access to basic public services and social amenities. It would be fatal for our nation to overlook the urgency of the moment.

Conclusion

At a time of turmoil for our country, when party defection and factions are strong, our leaders desire to unify the country should be more important than their personal comfort and gains. Indeed, we are a people full of promise, but have become a disappointment because of our misuse of God’s natural endowments, unique gifts and blessings. All around us are swindlers and fraudsters masquerading in different forms. The prevailing atmosphere is unfortunately that of deceptiveness, fraudulent impressiveness and the apparent false pretensions and counterfeit appearances. Corruption and dishonesty, oppression and exploitation of the poor has continued to be part of our everyday life. For decades now we have labored to entrench democracy. The struggle and battle for justice is on, and we demand an end to poverty, injustice, violence, terrorism and extreme religious fundamentalism. We must stand united to speak out more and more powerfully against corruption, violence and repression even if it will inevitably bring us under criticism and outright persecution. Let us not give up fellow Nigerians but keep hope alive that Nigeria will get better and better. Now is the time for action. The time to map out a clear course of action for a secured political  future for our people. Other forces may be at work, but God’s power reigns supreme – His sovereignty rules over all (Psalm 103:19).

Rev Fr Michael Adefemi Adegbola, Catholic Diocese of Kano Nigeria 2014.

The Role of Religious Leaders in combating Corruption in Nigeria: The Christian Perspective

The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing – Edmund Burke

Introduction

Corruption which is a challenging issue is a global phenomenon. It is pervasive and traverses ethnic, class or faith boundaries. There is no justification for corruption in whatever disguise. In biblical context, Corruption has been endemic among humankind ever since the fall (Genesis 6:11-12). While some get caught up in it, others resist it. The fact is that none can simply afford to ignore it. As Christians, we must not turn blind eye to or condone corruption. It is a serious matter and its destructive impacts should be of concern to all. Therefore, the issue must be high in the agenda of our homes, schools, Churches, Mosques and the society. Individual Christians in government, business and academia can play a part both individually and collectively in combating it. Regardless of gender, race or status, human beings have been assigned the task of building a corrupt – free society called the reign of God. This paper shall briefly define corruption, examine the forms, causes, consequences and the role of religious leaders in combating the menace of corruption in the Nigerian society from a Christian perspective and also pose challenges and make some recommendations.

Definition

Generally, Corruption is seen as the abuse of office for personal gain. The Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary defines Corruption as dishonest or illegal behavior, especially of people in authority. It is the act or effect of making something change from moral to immoral standards of behavior. Corrupt persons are people who are willing to use their power to do dishonest and illegal things in return for money or to get advantage.[1] According to El-Rufai, corruption covers a wide range of social misconduct including fraud, extortion, embezzlement, bribery, nepotism, influence peddling, bestowing of favors to friends, rigging elections, abuse of public property, the leaking of official government secret, sales of expired and defective goods like drugs, food, electronics and spare parts to the public.[2]

Our internal raging Battle and Choice

It is my believe that there is a battle raging and it is the battle of the mind. As a people we can learn from this beautiful native wisdom taken from the Irish get up and go 2011 Diary challenging us to the decisions and choices we make: A Grandfather from Cherokee Nation was talking with his grandson. ‘A fight is going on inside me’ he said to the boy. ‘It is a terrible fight and it is between two wolves’. ‘One wolf is evil and ugly; he is anger, envy, greed, self pity, resentment, selfishness, inferiority, false pride, lies, guilt, arrogance and wars’. ‘The other wolf is beautiful and good; he is friendly, joyful, generous, peaceful, loving, humble, kind, just, compassion, forgiveness, and gratitude.’ ‘The same fight is going on inside you, and inside every human being.’ The grandson paused in deep reflection on what his grandfather has said’ then he asked, ‘Grandfather, which wolf will win the fight?’ The elder Cherokee replied: ‘the wolf that you feed. ’Yes, it seems we have been feeding the evil and ugly wolf in us and as a result our country is bedeviled by all manners of criminal activities, terrorism and anarchy.[3]

The most vital question

Obviously, understanding corruption is the first step of fighting it. Also understanding how societies function and what principles that guide them will also help. The vital question: what part does corruption play in your life may seem ridiculous, strange and foolish to ask an audience such as this. As Christians and Muslims, we would say we have nothing to do with it, but the reality is that whether we recognize it or not, we are all caught up in one form or another of corruption and its consequences. Sadly, much of Africa has been massively afflicted by corruption over the decades. The reality and painful effects of corruption are visible in every day facts of life in Nigeria. So the need to do more in the fight against it. We should stand united as a people to tackle fundamental values and mindsets.

In his Paper delivered at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Lagos August 5, 2004, Reverend Father George Ehusani rightly observed that Many Nigerians, including seemingly pious Christians and Muslims, who would go to war in defence of their religions, have no qualms of conscience when they pay to obtain yellow cards without the necessary inoculation for which the card is supposed to be evidence. Many of our countrymen and women who flock our churches on Sunday and fill the mosques on Friday are at one time or the other involved in such fraudulent activities as evading tax, issuing and obtaining of fake receipts, over-invoicing and under-invoicing, importation of fake drugs, petty and large-scale bribery, fake audit reports, “creative book-keeping,” “round-tripping,” advance fee fraud, etc. All these practices are so commonplace and so widespread that many young Nigerians are today unable to distinguish between good and evil or between right and wrong. [4]

Corruption of our times

In his article Nigeria: ‘Unasked Questions about Corruption’,  Femi Falana noted that Corruption in Nigeria, no doubt has assumed a dangerous dimension, which percolates all the strata of the society. The civil society is not spared in this menace. In fact, it has so much eaten deep into the fabrics of our society that the hitherto insulated places have now been taken over by corruption. Rather than being a conscience of the masses, the civil society has become a tool in the hands of corrupt people. Our NGOs have become corruption vessels and the effect is what we see today – a society without conscience. Foreign aids meant for specific roles have been converted to personal use. Gone were the days when NGOs stood and spoke for the oppressed masses; now, they are agents of retrogressive, oppressive and corrupt personnel. The situation is even made worse due to the proliferation of NGOs where people just register organizations whimsically.[5]

Hypocrisy, dishonesty, falsehood, deceit and fraud are the rage of our day, the great plague of our world. All around us are swindlers and fraudsters masquerading in different forms. The prevailing atmosphere is unfortunately that of deceptiveness, fraudulent impressiveness and the apparent false pretensions and counterfeit appearances. In fact, the story is the same everywhere. Corruption and dishonesty has continued to be part of everyday life in many countries. Daily, we hear stories of managers and top politicians who embezzle and squander the money entrusted to them and are subsequently dismissed. Accounts of falsified documents, misuse of funds, bribery and corruption, forgery and counterfeiting, corrupt governments brought about by dishonorable politicians and office holders. These unholy ambitions and activities which account for many of our problems in the world leaves us completely disillusioned tormented and unfulfilled. It seems the world has abandoned all principles of morality and honesty. It might be helpful if we consider for a moment the various forms of corruption.

Forms of Corruption

Corruption which is the abuse of office for personal gain is widespread in Nigeria and manifest itself in all aspect of our national life. It takes some of the following forms:

·         Bribery

·         Diversion of public funds

·         Tax evasion

·         Selling Justice for money

·         Sales or leakage of examination papers

·         Lecturers asking for sexual favors

·         Policemen converting security check points to collection and extortion points

·         Favoritism in contracting process

·         Appointments and admissions through connection

·         Promotion of ethnicity where provision of social, political and economic privileges are given to a particular groups of people.

·         Over-invoicing and falsification of results and other documents

·         Immigration officers collecting money to issue international passports

·         Money laundering

·         forgery and counterfeiting

·         Illegal trade arms

·         Misappropriation and misuse of public funds

·         Violation of office oaths, political patronage and looting of public funds

·         Divide and rule techniques creating division, disaffection and disorder.

In fact, corruption has stagnated our centers, institutions, economy and life leading to poverty, deprivation and unemployment.

Root Causes of Corruption

The spiritual root of corruption is the human heart. For Jewish Christian Scripture, evil is not part of God’s creation but originates in the human heart. Human beings are conceived in evil and every inclination of their hearts is evil from childhood (Genesis 8:20-21; Jeremiah 17:9). When human hearts are not in fellowship with God, they are preoccupied with their own interests and fail to accept God’s will as the norm of action (Romans 3:23; 5:12). Evil rules over the personal acts of human beings isolated from others who ignore the common good, and they tend to develop selfish culture of corruption.

The Holy Bible offers clear teaching on the causes and consequences of corruption and also provides the godly alternatives.

·         Selfishness, greed and moral decadence (James 4:1-3). Envy and selfish ambition produces disorder.

·         A state of spiritual decay and moral dishonesty arising from the effects of sin. Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good morals.’ (1 Corinthians 15:33). Put away from you a deceitful mouth and put devious speech far from you (Proverbs 2:24).

·         Our minds are prone to corrupt thoughts, ambition and greed (Titus 1:15-16). Corrupt thoughts give rise to corrupt speech and corrupt actions (Proverbs 19:28; James 3:6).

Consequences and impact of Corruption

The disturbing trend of corruption has devastating consequences for the well being of the society. Its impact is extremely damaging and dangerous.

·         It threatens both public institutions and social development.

·         It is the greatest obstacle to personal, communal and national growth.

·         It is an obstacle to effective governance and leads to crooked illegal practices

·         It is an enemy to development and damages equity and fairness. Economic and social development have been systematically undermined by corruption.

·         Discourages people to work for the common good, thereby reducing productivity and hindering development.

·         It leads to breakdown of trust in the public services and institutions, ultimately leading to civil disorder.

·         It deprives people of access to basic services and amenities.

·         It marginalizes the poor and worsens poverty

·         It causes social injustice by generating inequality in resource distribution and often leads to oppression, poverty, tragic conflicts and violence.

Role of Religious Leaders in Combating the Menace of Corruption in Nigeria

To put an end to the brutal tyranny of corruption and terrorism causing horrendous destruction to our already powerless and vulnerable citizens whose lives are fractured by greed and fear, good leadership, good governance, and good democratic management of the whole society is absolutely important. George Ehusani spells out their roles thus: 

ü  Religious leaders must denounce institutionalized violence, political corruption and all forms of exploitation of people. They can help turn many Nigerians away from what appears to be an incredibly high sense of devotion to the cult of material prosperity and material success towards the spiritual values of truth, justice, holiness and purity.

ü  Christian leaders and groups can use the message of the cross to promote a modest and an austere lifestyle that will contradict the crass materialism and extreme economic liberalism of our age which is responsible for the worsening plight of the poor in our country and elsewhere. Muslims can do the same with the notion of sacrifice which is a key element of the three Abrahamic religions.

ü   Popular religion in contemporary Nigeria which lacks the essential components of sacrifice and a critical social conscience, has inadvertently supported the monumental pillars of corruption in the country. The challenge before us demand that we take a critical look at our penchant for scandalously expensive churches and mosques, harbouring stingingly rich and nauseatingly flashy priests and pastors and imams, whose marks of success include palatial mansions, state of the art cars and fat bank accounts! No, Nigeria needs religious leaders and groups of austere disposition who would spearhead a moral revolution and an ethical re-orientation for a nation and its people that have been brought low in the course of a protracted midnight of debauchery.

ü  Religious organisations in Nigeria can use their influence over people’s consciences to bridge the gap between religious ritualism and social morality. To dislodge the evil dispensation by which Nigerians of all walks of life seem to have decided that the price to be paid for honesty, fidelity, truth, hard work and diligence are too high, and by which they have settled for the short cut and the quick fix, and by which they have resorted to mutual betrayal, calumniation, opportunism and manipulation in the bid to make it by any means foul or fair, religious organisations must take up the challenge of constantly highlighting to their members the deadly consequences for the body and the soul, of those seven social sins identified by Mahatma Gandhi, namely: “Politics without principle; pleasure without conscience; wealth without work; commerce without morality; education without character; science without humanity; and worship without sacrifice.”[6]

ü  Religious leaders must help governments and companies to implement international legally binding measures against corruption. Transparency and integrity should characterize citizens involved in the building up of an environment that is totally free of corruption.

Femi Falana sadly pointed out that the roles of religious bodies in the fight against corruption have also become a source of worry. These bodies have become haven for corrupt individuals whose monies are used to sustain them. Instead of speaking the truth, religious leaders have suddenly become appendages of the ruling class using their vantage position to enrich themselves at the expense of the poor members of their congregation who often see them as next to God.

Why is it that in spite of the stinking poverty in the country, religion is hastily becoming another source of psychological trauma for the ordinary Nigerian? A poor man goes to church or mosque and is greeted with SUVs and other flashy vehicles belonging to the cleric. Even when the congregation cannot afford to eat two balanced square meals in a day, some of our religious fathers deliberately or inadvertently display wealth? Do the religious fathers think about repercussion of some of their actions? How many religious leaders are so committed to feel for the poor families in their congregation to a point where they are touched to leave out some of the worldly things like gold wrist watches and of recent private jets? For a good number of youths, it is not therefore evangelism or the love of Christ that makes them heed the call, rather it is a bid to become like my pastor in materialistic wealth. Most especially, while industries are grounding, religious structures are rising.[7] Today instead of Church challenging and changing the culture, we see material greed, professional pride and rivalry and lack of mutual accountability subverting it.

Our Collective Challenge as Christians

Yet, the hard fact is that, in the midst of this world that is often cruel, grasping, skeptical, hostile, deceptive and materialistic, Christians are called to give courageous public and private witness to Christ’s love, truth and justice. we are challenged to embrace the virtues of hard work, perseverance, honesty, integrity, honor, responsibility and accountability to build a secure, prosperous and happy future for our land. The heart of the matter is the matter of our hearts. Let us not die with heart failure. We urgently need a heart transplant, where no dirt or filth shall defile us; and we would become clean vessel in the hands of the Lord. As J. B Philips said: ‘Those who are hungry and thirsty for money, fame, sex, power, success, are forever unsatisfied. They have the doom of perpetual thirst upon them. The more they get the more they want. Those who thirst for goodness, however, thirst for what they are made for – hence they are satisfied.’ ( Matthew 5:6). For we are made for righteousness as we cannot do anything against the truth, but only for the truth (2 Corinthians 13:8). It is crystal clear for us Christians that the only way to live is the way of righteousness, always in right relationship with God and doing the right thing. Let us ask God to evangelize our hearts and take away all filth and impurity.

Recommendations

While we commend the Federal Government Constitutional effort in the fight against corruption through the regulatory and anti - corruption bodies such as Economic and Financial Crime Commission (EFCC) and Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), much more need to be done collectively by individual Christians in government, business and academia.

§  We recommend Christian education to the values of the reign of God. We should considerably deepen our understanding of the moral principles and ethical values upon which a healthy society should be based.

§  Sensitizing citizens on the dangers of Corruption and education to a culture of transparency and accountability.

§  Personal commitment to honesty, transparency and accountability is vital for collective action. We must bring our Christians vision and values to bear in our secular work, motivated by love and profound respect for the dignity of the human person.

§  Create a deep rooted anti-corruption culture through good governance and concrete anti-corruption policies

§  Make strong legislation against corruption and ensure compliance through strict enforcement of law and corrective/punitive measures.

Conclusion

It is not enough to confess Christ in the Church and at prayer fellowships. We should resist the world temptation bravely and resolutely. Give testimony and bear witness to the gospel openly and fearlessly. For if we want better life and simple justice for our people, we must continue to witness to Christ through the life of prayers and selfless service, for the salvation of souls to the glory of God. We can witness to Christ by making our homes, institutions, centre and organizations places of honesty, love and understanding by standing for Christ and working faithfully to the end. We must remember that justice and peace for all means promotion of equality of rights and equality of opportunities for integral human growth and development.

Therefore, let us not sit back and sink in despair and resignation. We must choose to live for God and allow Him fight the battle for us, because the battle is His. Let us stop this madness of corruption and unite to build a corrupt free society to alleviate the suffering of our people. Now is the time to battle on with the faith in God that conquers!

I sincerely thank you all for your attention.

QUESTIONS TO GUIDE GROUP DISCUSSION

1.  Whatever you do, do it to the glory of God. Do I do things for the glory of God, or do I think first of myself. In what way do I need to change with all the turmoil in our economy and allegations of corruption in public and private organizations in order to do all things for the glory of God?

2.  There is no justification for corruption in whatever form and we want change. What is it that we can do beyond talking? What difference can we make?

3.  How can we create and strengthen an umbrella organization that can influence public policy, set ethical standards, monitor local and international aid and expose corrupt practices?

Rev. Fr. Michael Adefemi Adegbola, Director Media Service Centre Kaduna Nigeria, 2014.

ENDNOTES

1.    A S Hornby, Oxford Advanced learner’s Dictionary of Current English, International Student’s Edition, Oxford University Press.

2.    El – Rufai N. A, ‘Is Liberal Democracy Encouraging Corruption and Corrupt Practices: The Privatization Process in Nigeria’, The Nigerian Social Scientist, Vol 6, no.2, 2003.

3.    Irish Get Up and Go Diary, 2011.

4.    George Ehusani, Religious organization and the Challenge of fighting Corruption, Paper delivered at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Lagos August 5, 2004.

5.    Femi Falana, Nigeria: unasked questions about corruption.

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[1] A S Hornby, Oxford Advanced learner’s Dictionary of Current English, International Student’s Edition, Oxford University Press.

[2] El – Rufai N. A, ‘Is Liberal Democracy Encouraging Corruption and Corrupt Practices: The Privatization Process in Nigeria’, The Nigerian Social Scientist, Vol 6, no.2, 2003.

[3] Irish Get Up and Go Diary, 2011

[4] George Ehusani, Religious organization and the Challenge of fighting Corruption, Paper delivered at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Lagos August 5, 2004.

 

[5] Femi Falana, Nigeria: unasked questions about corruption.

 

[6] George Ehusani, Religious organization and the Challenge of fighting Corruption, Paper delivered at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Lagos August 5, 2004.

[7] Femi Falana, Nigeria: unasked questions about corruption.