Bishop Matthew Kukah: “The Election of a Pope is Not a 'emilokan' Affair—It’s Guided by the Holy Spirit”
In a thought-provoking interview with Channels Television’s Political Paradigm, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah, offered deep insights into the recent inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, the significance of the Vatican in global diplomacy, and the moral responsibilities of African leaders, particularly in Nigeria. Fresh from attending both the burial of Pope Francis and the inauguration of his successor in Rome, Bishop Kukah emphasized that the election of a Pope is not determined by politics, regional favoritism, or entitlement, but by divine guidance and the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.
This long-form article breaks down Bishop Kukah’s powerful statements, explores their broader context, and reflects on what they mean for Nigeria, Africa, and the global Catholic Church. Whether you're curious about the papal election, Nigerian politics, or the intersection of religion and governance, Kukah's words provide rich material for reflection.
A Global Gathering of Moral Power: Kukah at the Vatican
Reflecting on the solemn yet historic events in Rome, Bishop Kukah described the Vatican as a unique space where moral diplomacy unfolds at the highest level. The burial of Pope Francis and the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV brought together world leaders, diplomats, clergy, and ordinary faithful from across continents. “Every square inch of that territory is a space for negotiation at the highest level,” he said.
Kukah shared vivid moments from the gathering, including intimate, behind-the-scenes conversations among global leaders during the ceremonies. This underscores the Vatican’s symbolic and practical role as a moral compass for the international community, beyond its religious function as the heart of the Catholic Church.
President Tinubu’s Historic Attendance
One of the major highlights of the papal inauguration was the attendance of Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. According to Kukah, this marked the first time a sitting Nigerian President had attended the installation of a Pope—a moment of historical and diplomatic significance. While former President Olusegun Obasanjo attended Pope John Paul II’s burial, Tinubu’s presence at this occasion signaled a deepening of Nigeria’s moral and diplomatic presence on the global stage.
Kukah noted that President Tinubu’s brief interaction with Pope Leo XIV was symbolic in many ways, particularly because of the shared connection between the two men to Chicago, a detail that adds a layer of personal relevance to the diplomatic encounter.
The Call for an African Pope? Kukah Responds with Humor and Wisdom
In the wake of every papal election, discussions often emerge about the possibility of an African Pope. Responding to such sentiments, Bishop Kukah offered a mix of wit and theological clarity. “Let’s win the World Cup first,” he quipped, before going on to dismantle the notion that the papacy should be distributed based on regional entitlement.
“It’s not an ‘Emilokan’ scenario,” he added, referencing the now-popular Yoruba expression meaning “It’s my turn,” which has become a slogan in Nigerian political circles. Kukah emphasized that the election of a Pope is not political. It’s not about manifestos, campaigns, or turn-by-turn representation.
“The process transcends human calculation and lobbying. The Holy Spirit ultimately guides the outcome,” he said, clarifying that even though 133 cardinals vote in the conclave, many do not know each other personally. This anonymity ensures that decisions are based on discernment and divine guidance, rather than political alignment or popularity.
“There’s Nothing Like an African Pope”
On the identity of the new Pope, Kukah dismissed the concept of regional loyalty. “There’s nothing like an African Pope. You can have a Pope who is African, but not an African Pope,” he explained. According to him, once someone is elected Pope, they belong to the universal Church, and their responsibilities, loyalties, and decisions must be global—not tied to their continent or country of origin.
Drawing from the legacies of past Popes, Kukah reinforced that the papacy is a sacred, universal calling, devoid of regional bias. It is a role that transcends borders, race, and ethnicity.
Africa Must Lead Itself, Not Wait for the Pope
Kukah addressed the common expectation that the Pope or the Catholic Church can somehow “rescue” Africa from its challenges. He pushed back on this narrative with refreshing honesty. “Nigeria is not Sudan, we’re not Gaza… we are a heck of a country with massive resources,” he stated boldly.
In other words, Africa's destiny lies in the hands of its own leaders—not in the benevolence of external religious or political actors. Kukah referenced Pope Francis’s 2023 visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo, where the Pope called on foreign powers to “take their hands off Africa.” This, Kukah said, reflects a moral stance rather than a direct intervention in governance.
Religion and Politics in Nigeria: An Unholy Alliance?
Turning to Nigerian governance, Kukah offered a sobering critique of the way religion is entangled in politics. He pointed to Section 10 of Nigeria’s Constitution, which prohibits any state from adopting a religion, and lamented that this provision is widely ignored in practice.
The consequences of this blurred line are far-reaching. Kukah explained how Northern Nigeria, in particular, still grapples with the legacy of colonial restructuring following the fall of the Sokoto Caliphate in 1903. Traditional rulers lost much of their authority under British rule, and these historical disruptions continue to affect governance structures today.
Leadership Should Not Be Tribal or Religious
“Africans like to make this projection: the President is from my town, therefore it’s our turn,” Kukah said, decrying the widespread practice of ethno-religious favoritism in leadership.
He argued that the law must remain supreme and neutral, saying: “Islam can be a source of law, Christian values can be a source of law, and African traditional rights can be a source of law. But all of us must become citizens under one law.” For Kukah, unity under a single legal framework is essential for national development and peace.
Traditional Rulers: Between Culture and Politics
Kukah also discussed the role of traditional rulers in Nigeria’s modern political system, referencing a book by INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu, which examines how traditional institutions interact with political forces.
Kukah pointed out that traditional rulers, once manipulated by colonial administrations, are still often tools in the hands of politicians today. “The modern Nigerian state has not improved on that relationship,” he said, highlighting how easily traditional rulers can be installed or dethroned depending on political interests.
He also stressed the difference between religious leadership and traditional rulership: “A bishop must produce a certificate of theological training. A traditional ruler needs only the goodwill of the governor.”
This, Kukah warned, is a dangerous precedent, as it opens the door for politically motivated interference in cultural leadership.
A Warning Against Constitutional Tinkering
In conclusion, Bishop Kukah urged Nigerians to be cautious in their calls for constitutional amendments that affect traditional institutions. He cited the increasing number of court cases involving traditional rulers in Ghana as an example of what could go wrong if due care is not taken.
The balance between Nigeria’s cultural, religious, and political frameworks is fragile, and any moves to entrench traditional rulers into formal state roles must be carefully considered.
Final Thoughts
Bishop Kukah’s reflections serve as a wake-up call to Nigerian leaders, religious institutions, and citizens. His message is clear: Leadership must be based on integrity, not entitlement. Governance should unite, not divide. And religion must uplift, not dominate.
In an age where political slogans like “Emilokan” gain momentum, Bishop Kukah reminds us that spiritual authority cannot be claimed—it is given by God. The same, he suggests, should apply to political leadership.
