Catholics in Nigeria have praised the election of Pope Leo XIV as the new head of the Catholic Church, saying the process was free from political or external influence, including from former U.S. President Donald Trump.
The Justice Development and Peace Commission (JDPC), the Catholic Church’s social arm, made this known on Thursday after the announcement of the new pope. JDPC members in Badagry said the Church followed its sacred tradition to choose a new leader.
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Onyema Onyekakeye, Chairman of JDPC’s Badagry Deanery, said, “This decision had nothing to do with President Donald Trump or any external person. The election followed the traditions of the Church.”
JDPC Chairman for St. Peter and Paul Parish in Tedi Ojo, Lagos, Mr. Joe Ahanna, described the Catholic Church as a disciplined and organised institution.
Ahanna said, “The selection of a new pope follows a well-known process and is guided by the Holy Spirit. We thank God for giving us Pope Leo XIV. We pray for his success as he leads the Church to spiritual growth.”
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, 133 cardinal-electors returned to the Sistine Chapel on Thursday after Wednesday’s vote failed to produce a winner. Pope Leo XIV’s emergence ended weeks of suspense in the Church.
Catholics around the world have since welcomed the new pope, who succeeds the late Pope Francis.