The multi faceted socio-economic problems of the Nigerian nation have been attributed to the dominance of the country’s political arena by dirty political leaders whose primary goal is the exploitation of the wealth of the country at the expense of the people, justice , equity and protection of the rights of the people.
This assertion was made by the Catholic Bishop of Ekiti Diocese , Most Rev. Felix Ajakaye in a lecture titled: Catholics in Politics: Championing Transparency and Accountability and delivered at the tenth anniversary of the Holy Trinity Church Commandery 574 of the Knights of St John International, held at the auditorium of the National Universities Commission, Abuja.
Comparing the activities of some of the country’s political leaders with what is obtained in other parts of the world, Ajakaye declared: “I posit that politics is indeed a clean game, but there are some dirty people here in Nigeria who engage in politics. Such people regard politics as the avenue to power, money and prestige. They can do anything to achieve their ambition. Anybody perceived as a stumbling block in their path to ‘glory’, is either eliminated or intimidated.”
He added: “They are ever prepared to maintain their grip on power once they get it. These dirty people are shameless. They are bereft of ideas and they are never friendly with criticisms, no matter the sincerity.” The bishop went further to outline the qualities of dirty political players to include: exploitation and manipulation of the people and the country and lack of principle and finesse.
Ajakaye further disclosed that the Catholic Church encourages her followers to contribute significantly to the growth and development of any environment they are in and make the world a better place while practicing and guiding their faith. Moreover, the Church’s moral voice has to be heard far and near so that the world may not lose its bearings, its focus.”
He added that the Church “believes it is more profitable and honourable to be known to always stand up for what one believes in. This is only possible for somebody who relies on God for strength, for he or she will not be afraid, but will always exhibit courage. ‘I can do all things in him who strengthens me’ (Philippians 4:13).”
While advocating that political parties should always strive to present credible candidates for elections, Bishop Ajakaye noted: “ Unfortunately, some of our so-called politicians in Nigeria do not see politics as a way of serving their society. For them, politics has become a do-or-die affair. They invest in it and plan their strategies to recoup their money and become wealthier once they ‘capture’ power.”
The post Nigerian politics infested by dirty players – Ajakaye appeared first on Daily Independent, Nigerian Newspaper.