In his 2024 Christmas message, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, has sounded a note of caution against the growing influence of secularism and the erosion of moral values in modern society.

Speaking to Christians celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ, Bishop Kukah expressed concern over the commercialization of Christmas, which he said is overshadowing its spiritual essence of peace, joy, and reconciliation.

“Christmas is increasingly being seen as another holiday or at best, one of the greatest opportunities for smart business returns. We have refused to accept the warning of Jesus that we cannot serve two masters,” he stated, referencing Matthew 6:2.

Kukah warned that materialism and moral decay, symbolized by the seven deadly sins; pride, greed, lust, envy, gluttony, wrath, and sloth, are leading the world astray and fueling instability.
Highlighting global conflicts, Kukah pointed to the ongoing violence in Gaza and other war-torn regions as evidence of humanity’s departure from God’s path.

“Today, the baby Jesus lies not in the innocence of swaddling clothes in Bethlehem but in the pool of blood that has now engulfed Gaza and its surrounding communities,” he lamented.

According to Kukah, the world’s moral compass has been lost, leading to escalating violence that threatens the message of hope that Christmas represents.
While urging Christians to be the light of the world, Kukah emphasized the need for self-examination and accountability rather than blaming institutions for societal corruption.

“We cannot continue to blame the Constitution, the Judiciary, the Police, or other public servants for the corruption in our society,” he said.

Instead, Kukah encouraged Christians to remain true to their baptismal promises, reminding them that divine laws written in their hearts should guide their actions.
Kukah criticized efforts to strip Christmas of its Christian meaning, warning that such trends could weaken the spiritual foundation of society.

“The forces of secularism are determined to empty Christmas of its core essence, which is the good news of joy and light to the world,” he said.
Despite the challenges facing the world, Kukah called on Christians to use the Christmas season for reflection, repentance, and the renewal of their faith.

“Christmas offers Christians a time for deep personal reflections on the values and virtues of the Christian witness,” he concluded.

Bishop Kukah’s message serves as both a challenge and a reminder for Christians to embrace their role as moral beacons and advocates of justice in a world grappling with crises.

A northern advocacy group, Northern Frontiers for Good Governance, has demanded a probe into the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security over an alleged N1 billion contract awarded for the renovation and rehabilitation of the Ojude Oba Pavilion in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.

The group, in a petition addressed to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on December 20, 2024, described the contract as a misplacement of priorities, questioning why funds meant for agricultural development were diverted to non-agricultural projects.

Signed by its National Coordinator, Mallam Abdullah Tanko, the petition raised concerns about the ministry’s focus at a time when Nigerian farmers face crippling insecurity, lack of fertilizers, and limited access to modern farm equipment.

“It is disturbing that a ministry responsible for improving food security is prioritizing the renovation of a pavilion instead of supporting farmers who are unable to access their farms due to insecurity,” the group stated.

The petition further questioned whether the project passed through legislative scrutiny, particularly the Senate Committee on Appropriation, chaired by an indigene of Ogun State.

The group urged the EFCC to investigate the motives behind the contract, Evaluate the actual cost of the project against the allocated budget, Recover any misappropriated funds and prosecute any individuals found culpable.

It emphasized that swift action would deter future mismanagement of public funds and restore confidence in governance.
In response, the EFCC confirmed receipt of the petition in a letter dated December 23, 2024, with reference number EFCC/PET/HQR/4401/2024.

As investigations commence, stakeholders and civil society organizations are closely watching how the anti-graft agency handles the case, which has sparked debates about budget priorities and accountability in public service.

In the wake of the tragic airstrike on Gidan Sama and Rumtuwa communities in Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State, survivors and human rights groups are calling for an independent investigation into the incident.
The attack, intended to target Lakurawa terrorists, instead left dozens of civilians dead and injured, turning Christmas Day into a nightmare for the peaceful villagers.
While local authorities have yet to release an official casualty figure, eyewitness accounts paint a grim picture of widespread destruction and trauma.
Survivors described the moment bombs rained down on their homes, killing children, women, and elderly residents who had gathered for Christmas celebrations.
“We were celebrating Christmas when we heard explosions. People ran in all directions, but many were caught in the blasts,” said Usman Aliyu, a resident of Gidan Sama who lost his younger brother in the attack.
Community leaders and advocacy groups are now demanding answers. Alhaji Abubakar Muhammad Daftarana, Chairman of Silame LGA, assured residents that a thorough assessment is underway, but he urged the military to improve its intelligence gathering to avoid future mishaps.
Humanitarian Concerns and Rising Tensions
The attack has raised questions about the military’s rules of engagement and their ability to distinguish between terrorists and civilians. Several humanitarian organizations have already mobilized to provide medical aid, food, and shelter to the displaced victims.

Meanwhile, Amnesty International Nigeria issued a statement condemning the incident:
“This tragedy is yet another reminder of the dangers faced by civilians in conflict zones. The Nigerian government must ensure accountability and prevent further loss of innocent lives.”
As residents mourn their loved ones, calls for justice are growing louder. Survivors and activists are pushing for an independent inquiry to determine the circumstances surrounding the airstrike and ensure compensation for affected families.
“We cannot let this be swept under the rug,” said Aisha Ibrahim, a Sokoto-based human rights advocate. “The government must take responsibility and provide answers to the people who lost everything.”
With investigations ongoing, pressure is mounting on authorities to strike a balance between fighting terrorism and safeguarding civilian lives.