Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Hassan Kukah has eulogized Pope Francis, describing him as a profoundly compassionate leader who dedicated his life to uplifting the marginalized and less privileged.
Reflecting on the Pope’s legacy, Bishop Kukah stated that it was a special grace for Pope Francis to have passed away on Easter Monday, a day symbolising resurrection and hope.
“The death of Pope Francis signifies the conclusion of an impactful 12-year papacy, during which he engaged in humanitarian efforts across the globe,” Bishop Kukah remarked in an interview with the BBC.
“Wherever humanity existed on this earth, Pope Francis was there, advocating for peace, justice, and love.”
Bishop Kukah acknowledged that the Pope’s journey was not devoid of controversy—many of his decisions and statements elicited varied responses.
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He pointed out that even Jesus faced scrutiny and misunderstanding during His ministry, illustrating that strong leadership often comes with challenging moments.
“Pope Francis was a friendly man,” he noted. “In a world so divided and fractured by selfishness, it is natural that speaking the truth can lead to controversy.
“Through his commitment to dialogue and understanding, Pope Francis built bridges among different faiths and cultures, fostering a spirit of unity in a fractured world.”
Bishop Kukah emphasized that the enduring legacy of Pope Francis is one of love, a profound love that celebrates our shared humanity.
This legacy, he believes, will continue to inspire future generations to promote compassion and solidarity among all people.
