8th November, 2010
The moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Calabar, Cross River State, South-South Nigeria, Prof. Emele Uka, has lambasted politicians in the country for entrenching corruption.
Prof. Uka descended on the politicians while delivering a message at the burial ceremony of Madam Comfort Imokhude Imoke, mother of Senator Liyel Imoke, Governor of Cross River State.
Thousands of politicians from across Nigeria, notably supporters of President Goodluck Jonathan and Senator Imoke had thronged Itigidi, the governor’s country home to show their loyalty to him and the president.
During the colourful event, the clergyman berated the political class whom he said could not be compared with the late Madam Comfort Imoke, a nurse who dedicated her entire life to the service of humanity.
Uka lamented: “The rate of corruption in the country is not in tandem with the wish of God for the people of Nigeria. What happens now is the case of the servant becoming the master and using that position to criminally take what belongs to the people.â€
He chided the politicians for not addressing the poverty in the land but showing concern for how they would build castles all over Dubai, the United Kingdom and the United States.
“Our democracy has become monetised. It is government by the rich for the rich where the servant has become greater than the master. If you doubt my claim, check out what it costs to contest for the President, Senator, governor or even local government chairman in any of the parties,†Uka said.
While he spoke, President Jonathan who was on the front row close to the clergy fidgeted on his seat while Governor Imoke who sat next to the president kept straight face towards the pulpit.
As if he was not satisfied with tongue lashing the politicians, the man of God placed a curse on anyone who tactically backs military politicians whom he said committed a lot of atrocities in the country while they were in power and they have positioned themselves to return to power to continue their atrocities.
“The soldiers, who ruled the people with iron fist, killed and sent many to jail, are itching to come back. Woe unto anyone who supports any of such persons to come back in power,†Uka said.
Speaking before the message, Jonathan called on Nigerians to be selfless and be worthy role models so that coming generations can celebrate them as people who gave their best for the advancement of the nation.
The eldest son of the deceased, who spoke on behalf of the family, Dr. Efem Imoke, said their mother advised all her children to listen to God and do whatever He tells them.
Governors at the burial ceremony include Uduaghan of Delta State, Adams Oshiomhole of Edo, Patrick Yakowa of Kaduna, Theodore Orji of Abia and Martins Elechi of Ebonyi.
Others in attendance were Chief Tony Anenih, Hon. Chibudom Nwuche, Senator Victor Ndoma Egba, Dr. Joseph Wayas, second republic Senate President, Dr. Mathias Offorboche, Mrs. Caroline Anenih, Ambassador Frank Ogbuewu, Senator Emmanuel Agboli, Chief Sunny Abang and Ambassador Matthew Mbu.
—Emma Unna/ Calabar
