​“Christ Amidst Our Shadows”: Archbishop Akubeze Issues Clarion Call for Justice, Hope, and Good Governance at Christmas



-By Ruben Mario Brodrick 

BENIN CITY – In a poignant Christmas message addressed to the clergy, consecrated persons, and the lay faithful, the Metropolitan Archbishop of Benin City, His Grace, Most Rev. Augustine Obiora Akubeze, has challenged Nigerians and their leaders to find hope in the birth of Christ despite the "literal and figurative darkness" currently facing the nation.

​The message, titled “Christ the Light in Our Darkness: Hope, Justice, and Compassion for Nigeria,” serves as both a spiritual reflection and a social manifesto, urging a shift from mere festivity to active solidarity with the suffering.

​The Light in Nigeria’s Darkness

​Archbishop Akubeze did not shy away from the harsh realities of the current Nigerian landscape. He identified a nation grappling with a multitude of "shadows," including:

  • ​Persistent insecurity and violence.
  • ​The crisis of youth unemployment.
  • ​Decaying infrastructure and systemic poor governance.

​Drawing from the Second Vatican Council’s document Gaudium et Spes, the Archbishop reminded the faithful that the "griefs and anxieties" of the Nigerian people are shared by the Church and by Christ Himself. "The tears and pains of our suffering people," he stated, "are also the tears and pains of Christ."

​A Prophetic Call to Leaders

​The Archbishop emphasized that Christmas is a "prophetic proclamation" that demands more than decorations. He issued a stern challenge to leaders across all sectors—political, economic, and religious—to reject:

  1. ​Corruption and Selfishness: Demanding a total rejection of the abuse of power.
  2. ​Unjust Structures: Citing Pope Francis, he called for a confrontation of systems that perpetuate poverty and exclusion.
  3. ​Irresponsibility: Reminding those in power that the "Child in the manger" is a witness against the neglect of the common good.

​A Pastoral Message to the Marginalized

​To those on the fringes of society—unpaid workers, widows, orphans, and the displaced—His Grace offered a message of profound companionship. He noted that because Jesus was born in a stable after being rejected by the inn, He intimately understands the pain of the forgotten.

​"Christ comes for you," the Archbishop wrote. "He knows rejection and hardship... You are not alone in your suffering and pain."


​The Mandate for the Faithful

​As the Archdiocese enters the new year, Archbishop Akubeze outlined four practical ways the faithful can embody God’s compassion:

  • ​Radical Generosity: Sharing resources with those in need.
  • ​Peacebuilding: Supporting efforts for justice and social harmony.
  • ​Prayer and Advocacy: Praying for leaders while encouraging them toward the common good.
  • ​Domestic Peace: Making the home a sanctuary of reconciliation and love.

​Conclusion

​The message concluded with a prayer for national renewal and a plea for the intercession of Mary, Queen of Nigeria. The Archbishop’s words serve as a reminder that while the night may be dark, the birth of Christ provides a "Light" that compels every Nigerian to work toward a future defined by justice and enduring hope.

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