Nigerian leaders should emulate Pope Francis’ love for humanity, says NNPP founder

Boniface Aniebonam, the founder of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), says Nigerian leaders must draw lessons from Pope Francis’ life and his compassion for the poor.

The Vatican on Monday morning announced the Pope’s death from cerebral stroke and heart failure.

In his condolence message, Aniebonam said the country cannot continue to ignore widening poverty while expecting peace.

The NNPP founder said those in power must urgently address inequality, adding that tackling poverty requires joint responsibility from government and all capable Nigerians.

“We must begin to have a rethink on humanity and how far we have neglected the have nots among us,” he said.

“No doubt, some Nigerians are trying, but economic challenges cannot be left to government alone, as people across the world support their governments in difficult times.”

Aniebonam warned that the failure of the rich to act could backfire, as rising crime is being driven by economic desperation.

“The criminalities emerging from our challenges are such that continued nonchalance from those who are capable may be their undoing,” he said.

“The trend I see is so scary. We must learn to help others genuinely and not turn the other way in the midst of hunger.”

The NNPP founder also criticised the public display of wealth by some Nigerians, blaming it for triggering resentment and desperation among the poor.

“Nigeria cannot be facing economic challenges, yet we see videos on internet, showing off stupendous wealth, money spraying and lavishness,” Aniebonam said.

“All these affect the psyche of the poor. The gap must be brought closer to enable the rich continue to live peacefully in the country.”

He asked Nigerians, especially leaders, to go beyond mere praise for the pope and instead live by his example.

According to him, Pope Francis represented humility and humanity — values Nigeria must begin to embrace.