The Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Kukah, has stated that the election of a pope is not a matter of entitlement, dismissing calls for an African pope with a light-hearted suggestion that Africa should win the World Cup first.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Political Paradigm, Bishop Kukah remarked that the papal election process does not function on sentiments or regional entitlement, contrasting it with Nigeria’s popular political phrase “Emilokan” (It’s my turn).
“Well, let’s win the World Cup first,” Kukah quipped when asked whether Africa should have had a pope by now.
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“I think we still have a long way to go,” he added.
Kukah explained that the papacy is not determined by geographical rotation or external expectations.
“It’s not an Emilokan scenario where people say, ‘These people have had their turn, now it’s our turn.’ No, it doesn’t work like that,” he said.
Reflecting on his past article regarding the 2005 papal conclave following the death of Pope John Paul II, Kukah recalled, “Many thought Cardinal Arinze came very close, but ultimately, that’s not how the process is decided.”
He emphasised that choosing a pope is a deeply spiritual and complex procedure guided by the Holy Spirit and not political lobbying or public opinion.
Kukah, who has been involved in various interfaith and international dialogues, noted that while Africa holds a growing presence in the global Catholic Church, expectations should be tempered with understanding of ecclesiastical procedures.
“The role of the pope is universal, not continental,” he added, cautioning against viewing the Church’s leadership through the lens of political representation.
While the comment sparked reactions online, the bishop’s broader message underscored the importance of substance over sentiment in religious leadership.
The interview also touched on global Catholicism, with Kukah expressing hope for continued engagement between the Vatican and African communities regardless of papal origin.
