“Poverty is not a crime” — Akpabio tells hungry Nigerians after spending years in power 

“Poverty is not a crime” — Akpabio tells hungry Nigerians after spending years in power 

 

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called on Nigerians to embrace greater compassion and solidarity, declaring that “poverty is not a crime.”

 

His remarks came during a virtual interview with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) after attending the funeral of Pope Francis in Rome.

 

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Leading a five-member federal delegation to the Vatican, Akpabio reflected on the late Pope’s legacy of humility and selfless service.

 

He described the Catholic Church not only as a religious institution but also as a global state, pointing to its massive influence worldwide.

 

“When you look at the Catholic Church, the Catholic Church is not just a church. The Vatican is also regarded as a state,” Akpabio explained. “You have the head of state that died and was buried today… heading over 1.5 billion people around the world.”

 

Akpabio highlighted Pope Francis’ modest personal lifestyle, noting that at the time of his death, the pontiff was reportedly worth only $100. He praised the Pope’s example, stating that true worship lies not in material wealth but in acts of self-sacrifice.

 

“You have a man who died as a man today, the Pope, who was worth only $100, showing that we cannot worship God in splendour,” Akpabio said. “The best way to worship God is through self-sacrifice for others.”

 

Encouraging Nigerians to take inspiration from the Pope’s life, Akpabio urged citizens to support one another, especially during the Easter season. He stressed that poverty should not carry a stigma but should instead be seen as an opportunity to practice virtue and charity.

 

“Poverty could sometimes be a virtue, a virtue of God. Whatever you have, you should be able to share with your brothers and sisters, especially during this Easter period,” he added.

 

Pope Francis passed away last Monday, triggering a wave of tributes from leaders and faithful around the world who praised his enduring commitment to humility, compassion, and social justice.

 

Akpabio’s comments come at a time when many Nigerians continue to struggle with widespread economic hardship, leading to criticisms of longstanding political leadership, including figures like Akpabio himself who have spent decades in power.