President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday described Catholic Priest, Father Ejike Mbaka of the Enugu Adoration Centre as a great cleric who was not afraid to speak truth to power, even at the cost of his own life or being hated by leaders in power.
It would be recalled that Mbaka was the cleric who predicted former President Goodluck Jonathan’s failure some months to the 2015 presidential election.
In a glowing tribute he issued in recognition of Mbaka’s 20th anniversary of priesthood, he also extolled what he described as the “extraordinary intrepidity” and “remarkable patriotism” of the priest.
Senior special assistant on Media and Publicity to the president, Malam Garba Shehu noted in a statement that the president said Father Mbaka did nothing wrong in contributing to the country’s politics.
According to Buhari, adding “One’s voice to make one’s country better has nothing to do with politics”, and that as the “conscience of the nation”, religious leaders cannot afford to be aloof or indifferent to the miseries of the people.
Shehu also noted that President Buhari described Mbaka as a remarkable example that religious leaders are the conscience and moral compass of the society.
“He (Buhari) said Mbaka rose to the occasion to add his voice in support of good governance and identify with ordinary Nigerians in the face of despair and uncertain future”, Shehu stated.
He further quoted the President as saying: “Though honest opinions attract hostility from leaders detached from reality”, history would be kind to Father Mbaka for courageously speaking truth to power, even at great risks.
The presidential media aide added that President Buhari, who said he was “overwhelmed by Mbaka’s sincerity and patriotism” prayed God to grant the priest more good health, long life and wisdom in the service of humanity, adding that he is a fountain of inspiration to all Nigerians.
Source:Leadership
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