The Director-General of the All Progressives Congress Campaign Council and Governor of Plateau State, Simon Bako Lalong, has tendered an apology to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria following his unpopular reference to the Holy Father, Pope Francis.
Lalong, a papal knight, had while speaking about his recent appointment by the APC, said the Pope did not disapprove of it.
But while admitting his error in a letter to the CBCN president entitled, “Letter of Apology” and dated August 12, 2022, Lalong begged for forgiveness and understanding from the Catholic Church through the Bishops’ conference.
“In the course of this, many of my opponents turned the issue into a political weapon with some spreading rumours and questioning the Integrity of my credentials as a Catholic and a Papal Knight.
“In trying to make my case, I have granted Interviews to Justify why I believe that the appointment did not in any way undermine my commitment to the Catholic Church. During the week, In the course or defending myself, I had cause to make reference to my credentials as a Catholic and a Papal Knight. In the process, I made reference to the Holy Father.
“I now realise that this was an error on my part and has caused some level of concern and even embarrassment to many especially the Members or the family of Papal Knights to which I belong.
“I now understand that I may have overreached myself in the course of trying to defend my personal decision in accepting this appointment and thus, the reference to the holy father was not Intended as an act of disrespect to his exalted and revered office.
“I tender my unreserved apologies and ask their understanding and forgiveness from my brothers in the Catholic faith and, through you. the entire members of the Bishops’ Conference, our Fathers and our Leaders.
“My commitment to the Catholic faith to which I belong remains unreserved and undiluted. I will continue to uphold the banner of my faith in public life as I have done over the years,” part of the letter read.
Stay ahead with the latest updates! Join The ConclaveNG on WhatsApp and Telegram for real-time news alerts, breaking stories, and exclusive content delivered straight to your phone. Don’t miss a headline — subscribe now!
