Former President Muhammadu Buhari says Christians in Nigeria
and across the world will miss the exemplary leadership of Pope Francis.
The Vatican on Monday morning announced the Pope’s death at
88, adding that he died of a cerebral stroke and heart failure.
In a statement issued by Garba Shehu, his media aide, Buhari
said the late Pope Francis served the poor and the weak and cared much about
migrants and refugees.
“He was a pope who strove to build a beneficial,
complementary relationship between the followers of the world’s two greatest
religions—Islam and Christianity,” the statement reads.
“Just hours before his demise, he made a call for an end to
the war in Gaza.
“I hope Israel and Hamas will heed this call as a final
respect to the Pope, who had the distinction of bringing climate change to the
Vatican and recognising the Palestinian State.
“The former president wished for a new leader who would
build on the inspiring legacies of Pope Francis.”
‘HIS LEGACY LEFT AN INDELIBLE MARK ON NIGERIA’
Meanwhile, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has
mourned the death of Pope Francis.
In a statement, Daniel Okoh, CAN president, extended
condolences to the Catholic Church over the death of the Pope.
Okoh noted that the pope was a “towering figure of faith”
whose papacy radiated mercy, justice, and a profound love for humanity.
“His legacy left an indelible mark on Nigeria, where he
strengthened the Church by appointing Nigerian bishops and cardinals, affirming
the vibrant faith of our people,” he said.
“His unwavering commitment to interfaith dialogue brought
hope for peace in our diverse nation, nurturing unity in the face of many
challenges.
“His outspoken advocacy against poverty, corruption, and
inequality deeply resonated with us, urging all to uphold the dignity of every
Nigerian.”
The CAN president noted that although Pope Francis never
visited Nigeria, his pastoral journeys across Africa conveyed powerful messages
of solidarity.
“His teachings in Laudato Si’ and Amoris Laetitia enriched
our spiritual lives, addressing vital issues such as environmental stewardship
and the sanctity of family life,” he added.
“As we bid farewell to this devoted servant of God, we pray
for the peaceful repose of his soul and for the Catholic Church in this time of
transition.
“May the legacy of Pope Francis, rooted in compassion,
justice, and humility, continue to inspire us as we strive towards a more
united and righteous Nigeria.”
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