On this Democracy Day, I had intended to rest my pen. I wanted to leave the fate written on the walls of history to speak for itself. I thought perhaps the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy were enough testimony. Yet, in the final hour, a thought stirred within me, compelling me to write a message to all of us who have come together to form this sovereign nation called Nigeria. My message is particularly for those who believe that the business of Nigeria lies in the hands of a powerful few. Perhaps they are influenced by what the German sociologist Robert Michels described as the "Iron Law of Oligarchy" ,the tendency for power to concentrate in the hands of a small elite. Looking at our politics, our institutions, and our economy, one may be tempted to believe that the destiny of Nigeria is determined only by those who occupy powerful offices and influential positions. But history tells a different story. Nigeria does not belong to any president, governor, politi...
Washington, D.C. — June 25, 2025
Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi joined Senator Ron Wyden and members of the Catholic Sisters of the NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice on Capitol Hill today to voice strong opposition to the Republicans’ so-called “Big Ugly Bill.”
The legislation, criticized by advocates as a sweeping assault on essential social programs, faces mounting pushback from faith leaders and progressive lawmakers alike. The Catholic Sisters, long known for their advocacy on behalf of the poor and marginalized, traveled to Washington to deliver a unified moral message: protecting human dignity must come before political expediency, Oriontimes reports.
“It was an honor to join Senator Wyden in welcoming the Catholic Sisters of NETWORK Lobby to Capitol Hill as they spoke out against Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill,” said Speaker Emerita Pelosi. “Their moral clarity and compassion were a powerful reminder of our duty to defend our values and protect our most vulnerable.”
The bill under fire is expected to cut deeply into healthcare, housing assistance, and food security programs, sparking concern among social justice advocates across the country. The Catholic Sisters emphasized that the legislation violates fundamental principles of Catholic social teaching and fails to meet even the most basic standards of moral leadership.
Senator Wyden praised the Sisters' courage and commitment, stating, “They are a conscience for Congress—steadfast, fearless, and rooted in justice.”
With this powerful coalition of lawmakers and faith leaders speaking out, opponents of the bill hope to galvanize public pressure and rally votes to block its passage in the coming weeks.

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