In saner political climes, party defection is typically a rare event, one driven by a clash of ideas, conscience, or a principled stance on governance. Politicians in developed democracies often cross the aisle because they disagree with their party’s policy direction or seek a better platform to serve their constituents based on deeply held ideological beliefs. But in Nigeria, defection has become a career strategy, an open market for the highest bidder, and a shameful display of selfish ambition. The principles of party loyalty, ideological commitment, or even the dignity of public service have been thrown out the window. Instead, what we see is a political class whose only guiding star is personal gain.

The recent defections of top Delta State politicians, including former governor Ifeanyi Okowa and current governor Sheriff Oborevwori from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), are glaring examples of this opportunistic culture. Their movement to a party they once demonized is not rooted in any philosophical or ideological reawakening; it is a clear-cut survival move in anticipation of federal patronage. Okowa was Atiku Abubakar’s running mate in the last presidential election and vociferously opposed the APC. Today, he is dining with the same political forces he warned Nigerians about. What changed? Nothing but the coordinates of power.

Let us not sugarcoat it, defection in Nigeria is about power, access to state resources, and political protection. These defections are not random acts. They are well-calculated maneuvers timed around elections, tribunal judgments, or impending probes. It is not about the people; it is about the politician. Okowa’s defection, for instance, comes just as the PDP continues to reel from internal crises and waning relevance at the national level. Joining the ruling party is an insurance policy, not a new beginning in governance philosophy.

Even more ironic is the case of Governor Oborevwori, Okowa’s political godson, who rode to power on the back of PDP structures. Now, under Okowa’s influence, he too has jumped ship. How does one explain that the same political structure that delivered electoral victory under the PDP is now suddenly unsuitable for governance? This is not about governance. It is about staying on the good side of Abuja.

Let us go back a bit in history. The 2014 gale of defections remains one of the most defining moments in Nigeria’s political journey. It started with five PDP governors, Aliyu Wamakko (Sokoto), Rabiu Kwankwaso (Kano), Murtala Nyako (Adamawa), Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers), and Abdulfatah Ahmed (Kwara), jumping ship to the then opposition APC. They claimed PDP had derailed and become undemocratic. Many Nigerians believed them at the time, thinking they were indeed men of conscience. But what followed was a familiar pattern, appointments, contracts, and political protection. Those who moved to APC became instant beneficiaries of federal power and resources. When the tide turned against the APC in their states, many returned to PDP or moved elsewhere.

In another classic episode, the then Senate President, Bukola Saraki, defected back to PDP in 2018 after falling out with President Buhari. He cited democratic suppression and lack of internal democracy. But many Nigerians saw through it. Saraki’s moves were less about democracy and more about shielding himself from the political witch hunt that had begun following his emergence as Senate President against the wishes of the APC leadership.

Yahaya Bello, the immediate former governor of Kogi State, though not a defector himself, has also benefited from a culture of sycophancy where loyalty is not to ideology but to whoever holds the power baton. Politicians like Femi Fani-Kayode and Musiliu Obanikoro, who were once virulent critics of the APC, are now proud card-carrying members, praising the same administration they labeled dictatorial. What changed? Certainly not ideology.

The truth is that Nigeria’s political class has no ideology. In fact, political parties in Nigeria are often indistinguishable in terms of manifestos, policy thrusts, or national vision. What we have are political associations built around personalities and power blocs, not ideals. So, defection is not a shock; it is a continuation of the same agenda under a different party name.

Compare this to the political behavior in the United Kingdom or the United States. When British MPs like Anna Soubry and Chuka Umunna left the Conservative and Labour parties respectively to form the Independent Group (later Change UK), it was due to irreconcilable policy disagreements over Brexit. In the United States, Bernie Sanders is known for his progressive ideology, running as an independent while aligning with Democrats for strategic reasons, yet remaining firmly rooted in his social democratic values. Defection, in such cases, is principled, even if controversial.

In Nigeria, however, ideology is alien. There is no left or right, no conservative or progressive. Everyone is a capitalist at heart and a socialist in campaign rhetoric. When they need the people’s votes, they promise heaven and earth. Once in power, the electorate becomes an afterthought. The party system has become a vessel for personal ambition, not public service.

This cancer of opportunistic defection weakens democracy. First, it erodes party discipline and makes nonsense of the ballot. When people vote for a candidate under one party, only to see him defect weeks or months later, it feels like betrayal. It destabilizes the political ecosystem and confuses the electorate. Secondly, it renders opposition parties ineffective. When key leaders of opposition parties defect, especially to the ruling party, it destroys the checks and balances needed in a democracy.

The courts have failed to help the situation. Instead of establishing a constitutional barrier against this shameless culture, the judiciary has often legitimized it. While the Supreme Court has, in isolated cases, ruled that votes belong to political parties and not individuals, the enforcement of such rulings remains weak and inconsistent. What we need is an electoral reform that makes defection consequential, perhaps a mandatory forfeiture of elective office when a politician crosses over mid-term, unless the party itself splits.

The onus is also on Nigerians. We must begin to interrogate our political leaders more critically. Defectors should be held accountable, not celebrated. Citizens must reject this political prostitution by voting against defectors, no matter the platform. The media must also play its role in shaping narratives. Instead of romanticizing defections as “political masterstrokes,” we should call them out for what they are, betrayals.

Ultimately, until Nigeria builds a system where parties are driven by ideas, where politicians are held accountable to ideological commitments, and where defection carries real political cost, the vicious cycle will continue. And every time a politician defects, it won’t be a movement for the people, but a march of personal ambition.

We must break this cycle, because a democracy where politicians jump ship at will is not a democracy. It’s a bazaar. And in a bazaar, the highest bidder wins, not the most principled leader. That is the tragedy of Nigeria’s political evolution.

The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Thursday, gave the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, the go-ahead to arrest and detain six promoters of Crypto Bridge Exchange, CBEX, over alleged investment fraud to the tune of over one billion dollars.

Justice Emeka Nwite, who gave the order after the EFCC’s lawyer, Fadila Yusuf, moved an ex-parte motion to the effect, said the detention would be pending the conclusion of investigation of the alleged offences and possible prosecution.

“I have listened to the submission of the learner counsel for the applicant, EFCC. I have also gone through the affidavit evidence with exhibits thereto along with the written address.

“I am of the view and I hold that the application is meritorious. Consequently, the application is granted as prayed,” the judge said.

DAILY POST reports that the six suspects include Adefowora Abiodun Olanipekun, Adefowora Oluwanisola, Emmanuel Uko, and Seyi Oloyede.

Others are Avwerosuo Otorudo and Chukwuebuka Ehirim as 1st to 6th defendants respectively.

In the motion dated and filed April 23 by Yusuf, the anti-graft agency sought two prayers, seeking an order of the honourable court for the issuance of warrant of arrest of the defendants.

It also prayed the court for “an order remanding the defendants in the custody of the complainant/applicant pending the conclusion of investigation of the alleged offences and possible prosecution.”

Giving four grounds, the lawyer said the EFCC has a statutory duty of prevention and detection of financial crimes through investigation.

She said there was an intel to the office of the commission’s chairman against the defendant bothering on various criminal offences.

According to her, the applicant has a constitutional duty to investigate these crimes and enforce law and order.

Yusuf said that “the defendants are at large and a warrant of arrest is required to arrest the defendants for proper investigation and prosecution of this case.”

In the affidavit in support of the motion, the EFCC said sometime in April, 2025, it received an intel bordering on an alleged investment scheme fraud against the defendants.

It alleged that the defendants and their company, ST Technologies International Limited, using another company, Crypto Bridge Exchange, CBEX, perpetrated the alleged fraud and the case was received and assigned to its Cybercrimes Section for investigation.

The anti-graft agency said that a warrant of arrest was required to place the defendants on red watch list so that they could be traced and arrested to answer to the case against them.

According to the commission, investigation into the allegation against the defendants revealed a prima facie case of investment scam.

It said it would be in the interest of justice to grant the application.

[DailyPost]

Pope Francis’ doctor recounts the pontiff’s final moments in a pair of newspaper interviews, saying the pontiff had his eyes open and was breathing with oxygen.

The doctor said that the pope was unresponsive after being stricken by illness early on Monday morning; he died without suffering at home.

Dr Sergio Alfieri coordinated Francis’ five-week hospital treatment for double pneumonia and continued to oversee the pope’s treatment after the pontiff returned to the Vatican on March 23 for two months of rest to allow a full recovery.

Alfieri was alerted at 5:30 a.m. on Monday by Francis’ healthcare assistant, Massimiliano Strappetti, that the pope had been stricken and needed to be taken to the hospital.

The doctor told the Milan daily Corriere della Sera that he arrived 20 minutes later.

“I went into his room, and he had his eyes open. I noted that he did not have respiratory issues, so I tried to call him, but he did not respond,” Alfieri was quoted by Corriere as saying, adding that his lungs were clear and he was receiving supplemental oxygen.

“He also did not respond to stimuli, even painful ones. In that moment I understood there was nothing more to do; he was in a coma.”

Alfieri said it was too risky moving Francis back to the Gemelli hospital, where he was treated for a complex respiratory infection that nearly killed him twice.

Two hours after falling ill, the pope died, having suffered a stroke.

“He died without suffering, at home, Alfieri told the Rome daily La Repubblica.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin arrived and said the rosary over the body, accompanied by the papal household staff, Alfieri told Corriere. “I gave him a caress as a farewell,” the doctor said.

Vatican News has reported that the pope managed a gesture of farewell to Strappetti after falling ill.

Alfieri became the pope’s surgeon when he needed treatment for diverticulitis in 2021; Alfieri tried to get him on a diet after the surgery.

After the pope suffered several severe respiratory crises in the hospital that required decisive treatment, the surgeon said, “We knew he wouldn’t return to his former condition and that the infection had left another scar on his lungs.”

“He improved with physical therapy. I saw him on Saturday, and I found him in good shape. I didn’t think it would be the last meeting,” Alfieri told La Repubblica.

Though Francis was ordered to rest and avoid crowds for two months to recover, Alfieri expressed understanding for the pope’s desire to return to work.

“Going back to work was part of his treatment, and he never exposed himself to dangers,” Alfieri told Corriere.

Francis couldn’t resist appearing in St Peter’s Square on Sunday, which culminated with a long drive through the Easter crowd of 50,000 on the popemobile, with several stops to bless children.

The pope insisted on inviting healthcare workers from the Gemelli hospital to the Vatican before Easter, even though the doctor suggested they wait until the end of the two-month convalescence in June.

“I have the clear sensation now that there were a series of things he felt he had to do before dying.

“We knew he wanted to return home to be pope until the last instant, and he didn’t disappoint us,” Alfieri told Corriere.

(AP/NAN)(w

Popular Nigerian businessman Obi Cubana has stirred debate on social media following a subtle response to his adopted son, Chidi, who recently referred to himself as the businessman’s “next of kin.”

Chidi had shared a post on TikTok with the caption, “Nothing do my shoulder, I just realised say I be next of kin.”

In what appeared to be a reaction, Obi Cubana posted a photo of himself and his biological son, Alex, on Instagram, with the caption: “Ancient and modern, eyes on the ball. @dtwalx aka next of kin.” He went further in the comment section to reinforce his stance, describing Alex as the “correct boy, original next-of-kin.”

The response sparked mixed reactions online, with some netizens criticising Cubana for handling a sensitive family matter in the public space rather than settling it privately.

This controversy has shown that in Nigeria, the term “next of kin” is widely misunderstood, especially among parents and guardians. Many people mistakenly believe that naming someone as their next of kin automatically grants that person the right to inherit their assets or properties upon their death.

Who is a Next of Kin

In Nigeria, a “next of kin” typically refers to a person’s closest living relative or a chosen emergency contact. This individual may be contacted in cases of emergencies, such as medical crises or accidents, and can be required to make decisions on behalf of the person when incapacitated.

The term is commonly used in medical settings, where hospitals contact the next of kin during emergencies or when consent is needed.

Financial institutions, where banks request a next of kin for administrative purposes, not for automatic inheritance, and legal and employment documents for notification or administrative follow-up in critical situations.

What rights does a next of kin have?

Contrary to popular belief, being listed as someone’s next of kin does not grant automatic rights to inheritance.

According to legal experts, a next of kin may assist with legal processes after someone’s death, such as obtaining a letter of administration.

He/she cannot access or claim the deceased’s assets unless explicitly named in a valid will or under applicable inheritance laws (customary, Islamic, or statutory).

A Lagos-based lawyer, Chief Malcolm Omirhobo, speaking on the matter, explained that, “There is this widespread misconception that if one dies, the fellow’s next-of-kin inherits all his or her assets, but that is not so under the Nigerian legal system. Generally, the question as to who to inherit is determined by law, that is, customary law, Islamic law, English Law, or the Administration of Estates law (or equivalent legislation).

“The law to be applicable in distributing the estate of a deceased shall be determined by the incidence of marriage of the deceased. It follows, therefore, that where a deceased contracted marriage under the Marriage Act, customary law is excluded, and succession to his wealth will be affected in accordance with either English law or the Administration of Estates Law (or equivalent legislation), depending on the jurisdiction. See Obuzez V. Obuzez (2007) 10 NWLR (Pt. 1043) 430.

What are the next of kin’s responsibilities?

Primarily, a next of kin is the first contact point if anything happens to you. The person can make decisions on your behalf in case you are unable to make decisions for yourself. This could come up before your death, whether due to illness, injury, or incapacitation.

Also, the next of kin can play a role in making serious healthcare decisions for the individual. This responsibility is particularly important when the individual is unable to communicate their wishes. Take a situation where someone is in a coma: the next of kin may be called upon to provide consent for medical treatments or end-of-life decisions.

Hundreds of women from the ancient Opobo Kingdom in Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area of Rivers State on Thursday staged a protest, demanding the immediate reinstatement of their son, Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

The women condemned the declaration of a state of emergency and the purported suspension of the governor, describing both actions as unconstitutional.

They also rejected the appointment of a sole administrator to oversee the affairs of the state.

Led by the President of the Opobo Women Association, Amaopuorubo Felicia Pepple, the women expressed deep disappointment over the six-month suspension of Governor Fubara following the emergency rule declaration.

The protest began with a solemn prayer session at King Jaja Monument Square, with the women clad in black attire as they sought divine intervention.

A cleric, Venerable Michael Dappa of Christ Army Church, Opobo Diocese, delivered a sermon titled “The battle is the Lord’s”, inspiring the protesters.

The women then marched to the popular Water Side, chanting “Bring back our Governor,” as they sat on the bare ground and listened attentively.

In her speech, Pepple emphasised the governor’s positive impact on the state’s development and appealed to President Bola Tinubu to use his good office to ensure Governor Fubara’s swift return as governor.

The women urged all Nigerians of conscience to support their cause, stressing that the people of Rivers State continue to suffer under the emergency rule, saying, “We voted for our peaceful and amiable Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara. We say no to emergency rule.”

They highlighted a strong yearning for democratic governance and the restoration of their elected leader to continue the progress and prosperity he initiated in Rivers State.

They expressed sadness that Opobo Town, usually renowned for its vibrant Easter festivities, was silent this year following Fubara’s suspension.

A resident of Opobo, Blessing Accra-Jaja, described the holiday as “particularly sad,” noting that the town’s major landmarks, including King Jaja Monument Square and popular hotels, saw little or no activity.

“Business owners and boat operators reported sharp declines in patronage, with many describing Opobo as a ‘ghost town’,” she said.
Accra-Jaja urged the National Assembly Reconciliation Committee and President Tinubu to reinstate Governor Fubara, in hopes of restoring peace and the town’s festive spirit.

She called on the community to pray for the governor’s return, while pleading with the President to give him a second chance, stressing that the people of Rivers State and Nigeria love and support him.

[Punch]

Hector Igbikiowubo, senior special assistant on media to Ibok-Ete Ibas, the sole administrator of Rivers, says the incessant protests in the state are beginning to grate on his boss’ nerves. 

A slew of protests and counter-protests have punctured the Port Harcourt landscape since Ibas was appointed administrator of Rivers by President Bola Tinubu — following the declaration of emergency rule.

Igbikiowubo added that the gazette of the emergency rule grants the sole administrator “sweeping powers”.

Speaking in an interview with Punch, the media aide said Ibas has been exercising restraint over the protests.

“The fact that people are able to protest speaks to the administrator’s level of tolerance,” Igbikiowubo said.

“If you check the gazette declaring emergency rule, you will see that it grants the administrator sweeping powers. Yes, sweeping powers.

“But fortunately for Rivers residents, the administrator has exercised restraint.

“These protests, for whatever reason, are testing the administrator’s will.

“We urge Rivers residents to be restrained. It is important that we allow a cool head to prevail at this time. All hands must be on deck to restore democratic institutions.”

He added that the protests are “unnecessary” and that restoration of democratic institutions in the state cannot be achieved through intimidation and harassment of the sole administrator.

Igbikiowubo said Ibas is already engaging stakeholders as part of peace-building efforts.

On March 18, Tinubu declared emergency rule in the oil-rich state citing a protracted political crisis and the torching of oil facilities.

He also suspended Siminalayi Fubara, governor of the state; his deputy, Ngozi Odu; and all members of the Rivers assembly for an initial period of six months.

[TheCable]

The Nigerian Airspace Management Agency’s (NAMA) visit to the Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport is a significant step towards the launching of full commercial flights. The airport is one of the legacy projects of Governor Dapo Abiodun aimed at transforming the economy of Ogun State into an industrial hub. Its cargo handling capabilities and proximity to the Olokola Free Trade Zone make it an attractive hub for trade, commerce and industry.

So, the visit signifies a crucial progress toward the operational launch, with expectations of commencing commercial flights soon.

During the visit, NAMA officials conducted essential runway checks and flight procedure validations to ensure the airport’s infrastructure and navigational systems meet safety standards. This process involves assessing the runway’s alignment, approach procedures, and functionality of navigational aids like the Instrument Landing System (ILS).

Additionally, the “23 and 05” checks were conducted to validate the runway’s orientations and ensure safe operations in both directions. In the final analysis, the agency provided guidance on upcoming installations, including ILS and other navigational aids.

This procedure indicates the readiness of the airport for full commercial flight operations. According to the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Engr. Ade Akinsanya, the airport is 97 percent complete, with world-class facilities such as a 4-kilometre runway, modern terminal building, advanced air traffic control systems, and a state-of-the-art control tower.

In his remark at the end of the inspection exercise, the Manager, Flight Calibration Services, NAMA, Engr. Miri Selzing, commended the Ogun State government for the impressive facilities at the airport, especially the 4-kilometre runway, which according to him, would handle diversions from Lagos, Ibadan, and Ilorin. 

He explained that the aim of the check was to ensure that the standard aligned with the proposed procedures defined for the airport.

He said: “Our purpose for coming here is to check the proposed procedures that have been defined for the airport. This is a significant process and not something that can be concluded in a short time.

“Our visit is the beginning of the validation of the procedure. We have reviewed the procedures that have been drawn up, checked them in the air, and we will analyze them when we get back to our base. From there, we will be able to come up with recommendations and modifications where necessary.

“But physically, the airport looks very good. The runway, about four kilometres long—the longest in the country—is very impressive. The airport has a good terminal building; everything is fine, so it is a great job being done here.”

He expressed hope that with the level of work done, the airport would become a destination for airplanes soon.

“The runway is long and large enough to accommodate any type of aircraft. The airport would handle diversions from Lagos, Ibadan, and Ilorin.

The Gateway International Agro-Cargo Airport’s 4-kilometre runway is indeed an impressive feature, allowing for the accommodation of large aircraft and potentially multiple flights simultaneously. Among other benefits, the capacity of the Runway to handle multiple flights and larger aircraft will lead to increased economic activity, job creation, and significant increase in income generation.

The Ogun State Government is working towards leveraging the airport to drive economic growth, regional trade, and industrial development.

For these reasons, Selzing gave the government a pat on the back for the job well done. “We commend the Ogun State government for such a laudable project, and we are prepared to assist as more facilities are installed at the airport,” he concluded.

With NAMA’s positive feedback, the airport is closer to receiving final certification for commercial flight operations.

According to Akinsanya, this is one of the last elements that need to be addressed to obtain commercial approval,” adding that once the flight check has been completed, it would be developed and made available on the Internet for easy access to the airport.

While noting that work on any airport around the world is an ongoing process, the Commissioner disclosed that the Airport was 97 percent complete with the control tower, ATC officers, fire fighters, and other necessary facilities already put in place.

 Located in Ilishan-Remo, the airport is designed to boost the state’s economy and provide numerous job opportunities. By projection, the airport is expected to create over 25,000 job opportunities, contributing significantly to the state’s economic growth.

The airport’s operations will create numerous job opportunities, both directly and indirectly, contributing to the state’s economic development.

Already, Charter operations have commenced, while approval for scheduled services is pending from the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA).

When fully operational, the airport will serve as a catalyst for economic development, enabling Ogun State to become a global aviation hub. Its strategic location and design will facilitate the transportation of goods and people, stimulating industrial growth and investment.

The airport’s cargo handling capacity will also enhance trade and commerce, positioning Ogun State as a major economic player in the West Africa sub-region.

Part of the plans by the state government is to establish a Special Agro Processing Zone and an aerotropolis around the airport, further driving economic development.

In addition to that, an MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) facility and pilot training centre are also planned, adding to the airport’s economic benefits.

With the state-of-the-art facilities and advanced infrastructure at the airport, Ogun State has potentials to become a major aviation hub in West Africa. The airport’s cargo handling capacity and ability to accommodate large aircraft can facilitate trade and commerce, driving economic growth and development in the region.

Specifically, the Airport’s proximity to the Olokola Free Trade Zone, in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, is expected to facilitate trade and commerce within the sub-region.

Besides, the airport is part of a larger aerotropolis project, which includes a Special Agro Processing Zone (SAPZ). This zone will enhance the cargo handling capabilities and attract industries related to agro-processing.

More importantly, the airport will significantly enhance the agro-allied value chain in several ways. One, by providing a dedicated cargo airport for agricultural products, the Gateway Airport can streamline the transportation process, reducing handling times and costs.

Secondly, its cargo handling capabilities will also facilitate the movement of agricultural goods, making it easier for farmers and businesses to access local and international markets.

 The airport’s Special Agro Processing Zone will equally enable value-added processing and packaging of agricultural products, increasing their shelf life and market value.

By providing efficient logistics and value-added services, the Gateway Airport will help agro-allied industries in Nigeria become more competitive in the global market.

The airport’s focus on agro-allied industries can as well contribute to diversifying the Nigerian economy, reducing dependence on oil exports and promoting sustainable economic growth.

Above all, by improving the efficiency and competitiveness of agro-allied industries, the Airport can help increase food production and availability, contributing to food security in Nigeria and beyond.

*Ogbonnikan writes from Abeokuta, Ogun State capital

It’s nothing to laugh off, however tempting. If the movies imitate life, we may not be as far away from an African pope. It happened in The Conclave, a film by Peter Straughan released in 2024, based on the novel by Robert Harris.

Through the intrigues, rivalries and scandals of the plot, Adeyemi, a Nigerian cardinal at the Conclave, almost emerged as pope before a contestant snookered him with the scandalous love story involving him and a nun, Shanumi, who had a child for him while he was 39 and she was 19. 

If the plot sounds like something from the fertile imagination of the movie director, a Nigerian, Arinze Cardinal, came close to claiming the papacy in 2005. Arinze didn’t miss it because of any scandals. Once the youngest Catholic bishop in the world, he was judged not just as one of Africa’s best but also as a global theological legend. Still, he was a nearly pope.

Banking on hope

That was two decades ago, when the papacy was a relay amongst a few European countries, with Italy claiming the lion’s share of 217. Pope Francis was the first Jesuit and cardinal from the Americas to rise to the top of the papacy, raising hopes that the next one may come from Africa or Asia.

This hope is not based solely on legend. Africa is the fastest-growing region for the Catholic Church, with about 20 percent of the church’s 1.4 billion population. This demographic shift has spurred optimism that, after the Americas, Africa or Asia could produce the next pope, and better if he is the first Black pope in modern history.

What does it mean for Africa?

An African pope will inspire faith across the continent, demonstrating that, when it matters, the church casts its vote where its mouth is. Papal historians say that some early popes were from North Africa, citing Victor I, Miltiades I, and Gelasius I, from Roman-era Africa.

But Africans are unwilling to exhume the tombs of papal history going back to the 5^th century for the remains of the last Black pope. They argue, for example, that if grace is the leveller, the rock upon which Peter’s Church is built, the baton of its highest office cannot be made to look like the exclusive right of three European countries – Italy, Germany and France.

An African pope might be the most unambiguous indication yet that the Catholic Church might be inclined to continue with the legacy of Pope Francis, especially his advocacy for the poor, marginalised, and developing countries. And perhaps more than any time in the recent past, Africa has a solid lineup at this year’s Conclave.

The lineup

OK, only a few bookmakers are betting on any of the 18 African cardinals in Rome. Most forecasts put their chances at 14 percent or less. Yet, Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson of Ghana, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Cardinal Ignace Bessi Dogbo of Côte d’Ivoire are among the best crop you can find anywhere in the world.

The least favoured African candidate, Cardinal Robert Sarah from Guinea, is not because of competence. He is a risky candidate because of his age (79, three years older than when Francis assumed the papacy) and his conservative views. His position on various issues, from LGBTQ rights to the exclusive use of Latin for the liturgy, puts him at odds with most European electors.

Stars not enough

Despite its bright stars, why does Africa still appear unlikely to get the number one spot? Cardinal Sarah’s dilemma – his mainly conservative views – reflects not only the sentiment amongst the other 17 cardinals and the predominant position of the 281 million faithful on the continent, this conservatism also impairs the chances of the African cardinals.

The beggar church

Yet, conservatism is only one of the many obstacles. The African church may have the fastest-growing flock, but it is also the begging bowl. In a world where money is the bicycle of the gospel, the African church is the largest recipient of many forms of financial aid. Although the irony is less rampant among the Catholic church than it is among Pentecostals, Africa has some of the world’s richest Forbes-worthy pastors in contrast to the majority of the poor flock.

According to one statistic, at 32.6 percent between 2020 and 2023, the African Catholic church received the largest assistance per region from the Catholic Charity Aid. Compare this with the German national church, for example, which has $26 billion of the net assets of the Church.

Some also argue that African cardinals have limited chances because they have faced less scrutiny. An article published by www.devdiscourse.com on April 22 acknowledged that even though a figure like Cardinal Turkson has emerged as a potential candidate, “Vatican insiders highlight the lack of public scrutiny by African contenders compared to their Western counterparts, potentially complicating their candidacy.”

Conclave politics

Yet, others say politics may be the most potent obstacle against African candidacy, reminiscent of the deadly secret plots in Straughan’s movie once the doors in the Domus Santa Martha were shuttered and millions of the faithful waited outside the Sistine Chapel to see the white smoke and the face of the new pontiff.

It won’t take very long to find out. Pope Francis wanted his successor elected within two weeks of his death. It used to take much longer. In The Conclave, for example, which spiked 283 percent across streaming platforms in one day from 1.8 million to 6.9 million, it took five votes over an unspecified period to elect the cardinal from Kabul, Cardinal Benitez.

The longest papal conclave after the death of Pope Clement IV lasted almost three years, from November 1268 to September 1, 1271, after which Pope Gregory X was elected.

Long road to change

For the pontificate and the faithful, it’s been a long road since. The Catholic Church has evolved from its medieval conflicts, reformation and counter-reformation through seasons of loss of power.

While books like In God’s Name: An Investigation into the Murder of Pope John Paul I by David A. Yallop highlight the tragedy of an institution endangered by internal corruption and fierce power play, the bestseller, The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown explores the grip and fascination of theological myth over the faithful and even millions of non-believers.

Yet the encyclicals of Pope Francis, his willingness to confront dogma with doubt and creed with charity, show the extent of introspection and modernisation in the Church. As the world waits for the white smoke from the Conclave, those who hope these changes may be so profound as to produce an African pope may have to wait a bit longer. Perhaps a sequel to Straughan’s movie would be the sign.

The odds, this time, favour yet another Italian pope.