‘Stop blaming leaders, take accountability’ — Borno CAN tells Nigerians

Introduction

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Borno State chapter, has issued a transformative call to Nigerians, urging them to prioritize personal and collective accountability over habitual blame of political leaders. This message, delivered by CAN Borno Chairman Bishop John Bogna Bakeni in Maiduguri, challenges citizens to rethink their role in national development. By emphasizing moral responsibility, ethical decision-making, and proactive citizenship, CAN Borno aims to address systemic issues like corruption, insecurity, and social decay. This article examines the theology and philosophy behind CAN Borno’s stance, evaluates its implications for governance and society, and explores actionable steps for implementing accountability-driven change.

Analysis

CAN Borno’s directive to Nigerians stems from a critique of what it perceives as a cultural reliance on external blame. The chapter argues that while leadership is crucial, sustainable progress requires citizens to embrace their role in shaping society. Bishop Bakeni’s address highlights three interconnected themes: moral accountability, civic responsibility, and family values. Let’s dissect these pillars.

Moral Accountability: The Cornerstone of Change

At the heart of CAN Borno’s message lies the concept of moral accountability. Bishop Bakeni asserts that Nigerians must internalize the idea that individual ethical choices directly impact national stability. He links societal decay—such as corruption and insecurity—to household failures in instilling discipline and honesty. This perspective positions families as the first line of defense against national dysfunction.

Civic Responsibility: Beyond Political Criticism

The chapter shifts focus from blaming politicians to fostering civic engagement. Bakeni advocates for active participation in governance, including voting, community organizing, and holding leaders to ethical standards. This approach emphasizes collective action as a tool for accountability, urging citizens to leverage democratic processes to influence policy.

Family Values: The Foundation of Societal Integrity

Bishop Bakeni’s comments on parenting underscore CAN Borno’s belief that societal problems originate at the familial level. He argues that children exposed to greed, dishonesty, and disrespect are more likely to perpetuate these issues in adulthood. By prioritizing moral education, families can cultivate generations committed to ethical living.

Addressing Systemic Challenges Through Collective Action

While acknowledging systemic failures in governance, CAN Borno positions citizens as agents of change. The chapter argues that leaders alone cannot rebuild institutions without public support for reforms. This dual focus on leadership accountability and citizen responsibility creates a framework for collaborative problem-solving.

Summary

CAN Borno’s call to action is a rallying cry for Nigerians to embrace accountability as a tool for national renewal. The chapter critiques the culture of blaming leaders, urging citizens to focus on ethical self-assessment, community engagement, and family values. Key takeaways include: (1) accountability as a shared responsibility, (2) the role of families in shaping societal values, and (3) the need for collective action to demand ethical governance. This article explores these themes in depth, offering practical strategies and cautionary insights for implementation.

Key Points

Practical Advice

Steps for Cultivating Accountability in Daily Life

1. Lead by Example in Communities

Individuals should model ethical behavior by rejecting bribery, promoting transparency in local initiatives, and supporting anti-corruption campaigns.

2. Advocate for Governance Reforms

Engage with local councils, participate in town halls, and vote strategically to elect leaders with proven ethical records.

3. Invest in Youth Education

Support schools and NGOs that emphasize character development, critical thinking, and civic responsibility to prepare future generations for responsible stewardship.

Strategies for Teaching Children Moral Values

1. Integrate Ethics into Daily Routines

Use storytelling, religious teachings, and real-life scenarios to discuss honesty, empathy, and the consequences of unethical choices.

2. Foster Open Communication

Create safe spaces for children to discuss challenges, ask questions, and reflect on their actions without fear of judgment.

Points of Caution

Overemphasis on Individual Responsibility

While accountability is vital, Nigeria’s systemic issues—such as inadequate infrastructure and weak institutions—require structural reforms that cannot be solved solely through individual action.

Risk of Token Gestures

Encouraging accountability without addressing root causes like poverty and unemployment may lead to superficial compliance rather than meaningful change.

Balancing Blame and Action

Criticizing leaders remains necessary, but coupling it with concrete citizen-led initiatives (e.g., youth anti-corruption clubs) ensures accountability is constructive rather than defeatist.

Comparison

Blame Culture vs. Accountability Culture

Legal Implications

While CAN Borno’s message is theological and ethical rather than legal, Nigeria’s laws on defamation, hate speech, and assembly intersect with the debate. For instance, public accusations against leaders must adhere to defamation statutes, while protests must comply with permit requirements. However, the right to criticize leadership, protected under Section 35 of Nigeria’s constitution, ensures citizens’ freedom to engage constructively without legal repercussions.

Conclusion

CAN Borno’s message challenges Nigerians to transcend the cycle of blame and embrace accountability as a catalyst for national renewal. By prioritizing moral education, civic engagement, and collective action, citizens can demand ethical governance while fostering societal resilience. While systemic reforms are necessary, individual and community-level accountability forms the bedrock of sustainable progress. This article underscores the urgency of heeding CAN Borno’s call, offering a roadmap for alignin€™ personal values with national aspirations.

FAQ

Sources

1. DailyPost.ng. (2025). “Stop Blaming Leaders, Take Accountability” — Borno CAN Tells Nigerians. Retrieved from
2. Nigerian Constitution. (2015). Section 35: Right to Life. National Assembly Repository.
3. Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN). (2025). Borno State Chapter Annual Report.
4. United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). (2023). “Insecurity in Nigeria: Drivers and Responses.”