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Meet African Cardinals who could be the next Pope

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As the world grieves the passing of Pope Francis, the Catholic Church finds itself at a defining crossroads with the selection of its next spiritual leader.

The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis died on Easter Monday at his residence in the Casa Santa Marta, marking the beginning of the process to elect his successor.

While preparations for his funeral are underway, attention has swiftly shifted to the list of possible successors, with two African Cardinals—Peter Turkson of Ghana and Robert Sarah of Guinea—emerging as prominent contenders.

Cardinal Peter Turkson

Cardinal Peter Turkson, 76, is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most influential Catholic figures. Born in Ghana, Turkson became the Archbishop of Cape Coast in 1992 under Pope John Paul II and was elevated to cardinal in 2003, becoming the first Ghanaian to hold the title.

Over the years, Turkson has been at the forefront of Vatican conversations on social justice, climate change, and human rights. He has served as President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace and later became the first Prefect of the Dicastery for the Promotion of Integral Human Development, a role created by Pope Francis.

Turkson is known for championing a more inclusive and compassionate Church, addressing global issues like poverty and environmental degradation while holding moderately progressive views on matters such as homosexuality. His election would mark a historic moment, as he would become the first Black African pope.

Cardinal Robert Sarah

At 79, Cardinal Robert Sarah stands as a strong voice for Catholic orthodoxy. Born in Guinea, Sarah has had a distinguished career within the Vatican, serving as Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments from 2014 until his retirement in 2021.

Throughout his tenure, Sarah became known for his unwavering defence of traditional Catholic liturgy and doctrine, including his opposition to same-sex marriage, abortion, and modern gender ideologies. He has also publicly criticised Islamic extremism, positioning himself as a defender of both Catholic identity and global stability.

In 2016, he sparked debate by advocating for priests to celebrate Mass facing the altar, a practice largely abandoned after the Second Vatican Council. His conservative theology and commitment to preserving the Church’s ancient traditions have earned him both respect and criticism within the Catholic world.

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Catholic Bishops knock Nigerian Govt over Benue killings

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Following the rampant killings in Benue State and other parts of the country, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), has accused both the Federal and the Benue State governments of failing in their primary responsibility to protect lives and ensure public safety.

In a statement signed by Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji, President of the CBCN and Archbishop of Owerri, the bishops expressed ‘heavy hearts and deep anguish’ over what they described as ‘utterly barbaric’ attacks on defenceless communities in Benue.

According to the statement, the cold-blooded attacks on defenceless communities where countless have been slaughtered, homes destroyed, and families left in anguish, are an affront to God, a stain on our shared humanity, and a terrifying reminder of the utter breakdown of security in our land.

It said no matter how well a government pays salaries or builds roads, its failure to protect human lives renders its achievements hollow, adding that the sanctity of human life is supreme.

The group called for immediate and decisive action from both state and federal authorities to restore peace, apprehend the perpetrators, and ensure justice for victims.

According to the bishops, “Any government that fails to make the safety and protection of its citizens and their property its foremost priority abdicates its fundamental responsibility and moral legitimacy.”

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Celebrity Nigerian pastor Tobi Adegboyega diagnosed with cancer

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The founder of the Salvation Proclaimers Anointed Church, SPAC Nation, Tobi Adegboyega, has been diagnosed with cancer.

The celebrity Nigerian UK-based cleric made the revelation on Thursday in a pre-recorded sermon.

While addressing his congregation, he disclosed that he has been battling with cancer “for the past few months.”

Speaking in the viral video, Pastor Tobi disclosed that he couldn’t join the service physically because he had just undergone major surgery.

“I was diagnosed with cancer. Yes, you heard me right. I have been dealing with it for the past few months or even more. I just had a major surgery; that is why I’m not there today. I have fought the battle, and the verdict to continue life was given to me by God for a new level and stage,” he said.

He further made a £100,000 donation towards cancer awareness and treatment for young people.

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Unholy mixing between male, female prohibited during Eid – Kano govt warns

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The Kano State Censorship board has warned event centres, DJs and other entertainment centres against promoting or accommodating indecent behaviour during this years Eid celebration.

The board said it would clamp down on any entertainment spot found promoting indecent dressing during the festive period.

This is disclosed in a statement by the board’s spokesperson, Abdullahi Sani Sulaiman on behalf of Lawan Hamisu Dan Hassan, Director of the Film and Publications Department of the board.

The statement added that a special task force has been established to monitor activities across entertainment venues during Eid, adding that free mixing between males are females is strictly prohibited.

The statement added that the committee will operate under the supervision of Alhaji Lawan Hamisu Dan Hassan, Director of Film and Publication Department of the Board.

He said the committee would ensure no free mixing and indecent dressers or those under influence are denied entry into all entertainment spots.

According to the statement, the committee would work covertly and openly, from the first to the last day of Eid to ensure full compliance.

He issued a stern warning to owners of event centres, clubs, and DJs to adhere strictly to the board’s regulations or face the consequences.

He also urged parents to continue guiding their children with good morals and pray for a peaceful and successful Eid celebration.

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