Nigerian bishop scorns suggestion of running in presidential election

‘Why will I run for the presidency? I have something that is more that the presidency. My priesthood is more than anything you can offer. Tinubu cannot offer me a ticket.’

Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah of Sokoto refuted claims suggesting he could serve as a running mate to President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election.

Speaking to The Tablet during the plenary of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) in Abuja on 19-26 February, he dismissed speculation that he might join the presidential race to balance a Muslim-Christian ticket.

He insisted the issue of religion in Nigeria goes beyond mere balancing of faiths by political office holders.

“Our leaders must look beyond religion, we must look beyond parochial narrow mindedness if we must develop as a country,” Bishop Kukah said.

“Yes these cries of faith balancing between Christian and Muslim will continue to play a big factor when elections are around the corner. But the big question is that where has this led us? Where has it taken us to? But let me even tell that this did not start today, I mean the pressure to abdicate my priestly office. But for what?”

Kukah said he is fully committed to his calling as a priest and has no desire to leave it for political office. He maintained that his priesthood is of greater value than any position in government, and that no political offer can compare with the spiritual responsibility he carries as a servant of God.

The bishop also said the idea of becoming a running mate does not align with his life’s mission and personal convictions. He said that the president does not have anything to offer him in terms of a political ticket, repeating that his role in the Church is far more important to him than holding public office.

“Do I look like somebody who can be running mate to anybody?” he asked. “Why will I run for the presidency? I have something that is more that the presidency. My priesthood is more than anything you can offer. Tinubu cannot offer me a ticket.”

He continued: “As a Catholic bishop, we have an agreement which we all signed and is bounding on all. So, if you want to leave that office to go and do something else, you certainly know what you are likely to face.

“A Catholic priest left to hold a public office in Nigeria here and by the time he wanted to come back, it was a hell for him. The door was shut against him. So what will I be looking for as a Vice President of Nigeria? What will it confer on me? I am satisfied and very fulfilled as a priest.”

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