- Fayemi, Okowa, Kalu eulogise Catholic Bishop
The Northern Governors’ Forum has said the contributions of Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah, to the development of democracy is significant in sustaining national unity and empowerment.
In a statement by its Chairman and Plateau State Governor Simon Lalong, the forum eulogised the eminent clergyman on yesterday’s celebration of his 70th birthday.
The statement in Jos, the state capital, by Lalong’s spokesperson, Dr. Makut Macham, said the northern governors acknowledged Kukah’s contributions in addressing Nigeria’s challenges in education, the justice system, administration and eradicating poverty.
“Bishop Kukah has played critical roles in advancing Nigeria’s democracy and promoting credible, violence-free and acceptable elections as the Convener of the National Peace Committee, headed by Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar…
“The forum commended him for his love for humanity and speaking against injustice and oppression.
“The forum lauded his passion and determination to mentor the youths on their role as future leaders of the country, through inspiring them to look beyond Nigeria’s current challenges and work for a better nation.
“The forum and Nigeria at large shall continue to benefit from his wealth of knowledge, experience and wise counsel,” the statement said.
Also, Ekiti State governor and Chairman of Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Dr. Kayode Fayemi; Delta State Governor and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) vice presidential candidate, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, as well as Senate Chief Whip Orji Uzor Kalu have felicitated Bishop Kukah on his birthday.
In a statement in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, by his Chief Press Secretary Yinka Oyebode, Governor Fayemi described Kukah as a special breed and a gift to Nigeria and humanity.
“Bishop Kukah embodies humility, courage, integrity and diligence. His passion for the masses, especially the vulnerable and less privileged is second to none. Such a man can best be described as a special gift of God to his generation.
“On this occasion of his 70th birthday, I wish him long life and good health so that he can continue his selfless service to humanity. On behalf of my wife, the government and the good people of Ekiti State, I congratulate Bishop Kukah and wish him many more years of celebrations,” Fayemi said.
Also, in a statement yesterday in Asaba, the state capital, by his Chief Press Secretary, Olisa Ifeajika, Governor Okowa said: “As a renowned priest of the Catholic Church and Bishop of Sokoto, you deployed your vast experience and knowledge to bear as the conscience of the nation.
“Over the years, you have remained a voice of integrity, with strong convictions for the peace and unity of this great country for which we owe you an enduring gratitude,” he said.
Kalu described Bishop Kukah as a selfless Nigerian with passion for national growth and development.
The former Abia State governor acknowledged the robust contributions of the bishop to nation-building.
“The priest has made invaluable contributions to national development.
“I join other Nigerians in celebrating the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Bishop Matthew Kukah, as he clocks 70.
“The Bishop has consistently used his platform to promote peaceful co-existence among all ethnic groups in Nigeria. He is selfless, bold, courageous and passionate about a united Nigeria.
“I salute the celebrant for his outstanding accomplishments,” Kalu said.
The Nation
