FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has dismissed Cardinal John Onaiyekan's public criticism of President Bola Tinubu's administration as politically motivated, asserting that the former Archbishop of Abuja's political sympathies are an open secret. Speaking on Tuesday, August 4, during his monthly media chat with journalists in Abuja, Wike addressed the growing tension between the cardinal and the presidency, emphasizing that Onaiyekan's stance is neither impartial nor constructive.
Background of the Controversy
The rift began after the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), led by its president, Archbishop Matthew Ndagoso, visited President Tinubu at the State House in Abuja. During the meeting, Ndagoso raised concerns about the economic hardship affecting Nigerians. Tinubu defended his administration's record, citing the end of prolonged university lecturer strikes as a sign of progress.
Hours after the visit, Cardinal Onaiyekan appeared on Arise Television's 'Prime Time' programme, stating that the president seemed displeased with the bishops' message that the country was struggling and the economy was hitting ordinary citizens hard. The remarks triggered a sharp response from presidential aide Daniel Bwala, who accused the cardinal of being political rather than spiritual and alleged that the Catholic Church was backing Peter Obi of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) for the 2027 elections.
Wike's Assertions on Partisanship
Wike supported Bwala's position, saying Onaiyekan's record is clear. "I am aware of the position of Cardinal Onaiyekan. All of us know… it's not hidden. Who he supports? Everybody knows that," Wike stated. He referenced the 2023 election, noting that leaders openly took sides. "Please don't tell me he is not partisan, don't tell me that. You know what happened during the 2023 election? People took sides, leaders took sides. It was very open," he added.
Wike emphasized that he would not accept claims of impartiality. "I would be stupid to sit here for anybody to tell me this person is impartial. No, we know ourselves in this country. We know who belongs where."
Constructive Criticism vs. Opposition
While Wike acknowledged that government should not be shielded from scrutiny, he argued that constructive criticism must acknowledge both failures and achievements. "If you are a religious leader and it is perceived or seen that you are taking sides, it becomes difficult for people to begin to see those comments as helpful or real," he said.
He urged religious figures and elder statesmen to balance their commentary. "As a leader, commend government when government has done well on some areas. Criticise government," Wike advised, warning that relentless negativity makes the government view critics as opponents rather than concerned voices.
Onaiyekan's Warning on 2027 Voter Apathy
In a related development, Legit.ng reported that Cardinal Onaiyekan warned that if Nigerians believe the All Progressives Congress (APC) is certain to win the 2027 elections, it could lead to widespread voter apathy and undermine the legitimacy of the next government. He made these remarks on Eagle 102.5 FM in Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State, during the 'Frontline' programme.
The ongoing dispute highlights the delicate relationship between religious leadership and political governance in Nigeria, as the 2027 elections approach.
