Elder statesman and Ijaw leader, Chief Edwin Clark, has condemned the rising trend of nepotism in Nigeria’s political landscape, accusing past and present administrations of fostering inequality and deepening ethnic divides.

Speaking during a special Christmas service at his residence in Abuja, Chief Clark criticized both former President Muhammadu Buhari and current President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for failing to promote inclusivity in governance.

Clark accused the Buhari administration of appointing individuals based on ethnicity rather than merit, describing it as a deliberate act that sidelined qualified Nigerians from other regions.

He lamented that under Tinubu’s leadership, the situation has remained unchanged, perpetuating the culture of favoritism and exclusion.

Speaking passionately, Clark said that Nigeria belongs to all its citizens and should not be dominated by any particular group or region.

“For eight years, Buhari employed his own people whether educated or not. Under Tinubu, the situation hasn’t changed. Nobody is superior to others; this country belongs to every Nigerian,” Chief Clark stated.

The elder statesman argued that nepotism undermines national unity and has contributed to Nigeria’s economic and political instability.

He said that such practices erode public trust in government institutions and alienate marginalized groups. Clark warned that tribalism and favoritism threaten the country’s democratic foundation, calling for a system that prioritizes competence, fairness, and accountability.

Chief Clark urged Nigerians to hold their leaders accountable, stressing the need for reforms that promote inclusivity and reflect the nation’s diversity.

He stressed the importance of citizens engaging in constructive criticism and demanding transparency in government appointments.

He also praised recent efforts by President Tinubu to address the public through national broadcasts but cautioned that speeches alone cannot solve Nigeria’s problems. He called for concrete actions to tackle corruption, insecurity, and poverty.

“We must move beyond words to action. Leaders must lead by example and ensure fairness in governance,” he said.

Highlighting the role of the church in promoting peace and unity, Clark appealed to religious leaders to use their platforms to preach unity and tolerance, urging the body of Christ to continue preaching messages of unity, peace, and national harmony.

“We are all Nigerians,” he said, calling on citizens to prioritize collective growth over regional or ethnic divisions.

He stressed the need for faith-based institutions to encourage moral values and discourage divisive politics.

“Let our churches and mosques preach messages of love and unity. Nigeria can only move forward when we work together as one people,” Clark added.

Chief Edwin Clark’s comments have reignited conversations around nepotism and national integration. As Nigeria faces economic and security challenges, his call for inclusive governance and equitable distribution of opportunities resonated with many citizens seeking change.

Observers believe Clark’s remarks could pressure the Tinubu administration to reevaluate its approach to governance and focus on policies that promote national cohesion.

“Nigeria must rise above ethnic politics,” Clark concluded, urging leaders to prioritize the common good over personal or tribal interests.

In a powerful Christmas sermon, Pastor Ben Idume reflected on the fall of man and the hope restored through the birth of Jesus Christ. He emphasized Christ’s role as the light of the world, offering redemption and eternal life to humanity.

Addressing issues of corruption and poor governance, Pastor Idume called on Nigerians to let the light of Christ transform their lives and the nation. He urged Christians to embody love, integrity, and righteousness, becoming agents of change in their communities.

Lamenting Nigeria’s struggles despite abundant resources, he prayed for peace, unity, and prosperity, declaring that God’s light would dispel darkness and lead the nation toward progress.

He concluded with a call to action, urging believers to reflect Christ’s love and truth daily and shine as beacons of hope in a troubled world.