President Muhammadu Buhari, on Thursday, spoke about Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka of the Enugu Adoration Centre in celebration of his 20th years of priesthood.
President Buhari and Father Mbaka
In a glowing tribute in recognition of Enugu popular Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka’s 20th anniversary of priesthood, President Muhammadu Buhari yesterday described the Enugu Adoration Ministries leader as a great cleric who was not afraid to speak truth, even at the cost of his own life or being hated by leaders in power.
He also extolled what he described as the 'extraordinary intrepidity' and 'remarkable patriotism of the priest.
It would be recalled that Mbaka was the cleric who predicted former President Goodluck Jonathan’s failure some months to the 2015 presidential election.
Presidential Senior special assistant on Media and Publicity, Malam Garba Shehu noted in a statement that the president said Father Mbaka did nothing wrong in contributing to the country’s politics.
According to the statement;
"One’s voice to make one’s country better has nothing to do with politics, and that as the “conscience of the nation”, religious leaders cannot afford to be aloof or indifferent to the miseries of the people.
He (Buhari) said Mbaka rose to the occasion to add his voice in support of good governance and identify with ordinary Nigerians in the face of despair and uncertain future."
Though honest opinions attract hostility from leaders detached from reality, history would be kind to Father Mbaka for courageously speaking truth to power, even at great risks."
The presidential media aide added that President Buhari, who said he was "overwhelmed by Mbaka’s sincerity and patriotism" prayed God to grant the priest more good health, long life and wisdom in the service of humanity, adding that he is a fountain of inspiration to all Nigerians.