FCT Minister Nyesom Wike cautions religious leaders against taking partisan positions in national politics, after reacting to comments by Abuja’s Archbishop Emeritus, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, about President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Speaking during the August edition of his monthly media chat aired on TVC, Wike says religious leaders may criticise government policies, but such criticism should be balanced and should also acknowledge areas where the administration has made progress. He argues that consistently negative remarks can reduce the usefulness of the criticism and make it harder for the public to view leaders’ interventions as helpful.
Wike also disputes claims that religious leaders were politically neutral during the 2023 elections, saying many openly took sides. His remarks come amid a wider public disagreement involving the Presidency and Cardinal Onaiyekan, linked to a meeting between Tinubu and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria. The bishops reportedly raise concerns about worsening economic hardship and insecurity, while Tinubu reportedly responds that the country is making progress. The Presidency later defends its position and accuses some church leaders of partisanship, while opposition figures call for an apology to the Catholic Church.
