In a powerful Christmas appeal, the Bishop of the Katsina Catholic Diocese, Most Reverend Gerald Mamman Musa, has cautioned the Federal Government against imposing taxes that further burden the nation's poor. He urged authorities to first plug revenue leaks and cut excesses before tightening the belts of vulnerable citizens.
A Call for Compassionate Governance
Bishop Musa delivered his message on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, during a press conference held at the Katsina Catholic Church. He stated that the spirit of Christmas should compel leaders to prioritize the welfare of the masses. The cleric emphasized that public funds are often diverted for political gain while communities suffer from a lack of food, security, and employment.
"Such leaders must remember that God came among the poor, not the powerful," Bishop Musa declared. "A government that ignores the weak contradicts the very spirit of Christmas."
Economic Relief for the Backbone of the Economy
The bishop highlighted the severe challenges facing key demographics, who he described as the backbone of Nigeria's economy. He pointed out that farmers, market women, artisans, and small business owners are grappling with:
- Widespread insecurity
- Rampant inflation
- The harsh ripple effects of the fuel subsidy removal
To address this, he presented a clear roadmap for the government:
- Provide targeted support for farmers and rural workers.
- Strengthen Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) through grants and soft loans.
- Avoid taxes that lack a human and compassionate face.
- Recover revenues lost to illegal mining, oil theft, reckless borrowing, and government waste.
- Cut excessive government spending before asking more from the poor.
"Taxation must not become a punishment for being poor," he asserted.
Warning Against Divisive Politics and Early Campaigning
Shifting focus to political leadership, Bishop Musa warned that governance must be rooted in service, not manipulation. He expressed deep concern over politicians who have already abandoned governance for early campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections, despite the deepening hardship in the country.
"Leadership is not a chessboard to be manipulated but a sacred trust to be honoured," he stated. He also lamented that some individuals have turned themselves into "instruments of darkness."
Condemnation of Profitable Violence
The bishop strongly condemned the insecurity plaguing the nation, noting that violent crimes like kidnapping, banditry, and assassination have become lucrative ventures for a few at the expense of the many.
He issued a stern warning to those benefiting from the suffering of others: "Let it be known clearly: no one profits from blood without inviting judgment upon themselves. To those who enrich themselves through the tears of farmers, traders, travellers, and vulnerable citizens, Scripture declares emphatically: 'There is no peace for the wicked' (Isaiah 48:22)."
Bishop Musa's message serves as a poignant reminder of the need for empathetic and accountable leadership, especially during a season dedicated to hope and giving.
