The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has publicly challenged Cardinal John Onaiyekan, accusing the Catholic cleric of political bias and questioning the validity of his criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration. Wike made these remarks during his monthly media chat in Abuja on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, which was broadcast live by TVC News.
Wike Questions Religious Leaders' Credibility
Wike argued that it is difficult for the public to take Onaiyekan's comments seriously when the cleric's political allegiance is well known. He stated, "If a religious leader is perceived or seen to be taking a side and it's very clear, it becomes difficult for people to see those comments as helpful or real. I'm aware of Cardinal Onaiyekan's position. It's not hidden who he supports. Everybody knows that."
The former Rivers State governor also broadened his criticism to include other religious figures, noting that during the 2023 presidential election, religious leaders openly took sides. "In the 2023 presidential election, religious leaders took sides. It was very open," he added.
Online Reactions to Wike's Remarks
The video clip of Wike's remarks, shared on X by @NigAffairs, sparked a wave of reactions from social media users. @aoidowu1309 commented, "It is not a hidden thing that the man is fighting for Peter Obi to become president. This time he will lose so badly. Just waiting for it." Another user, @GodwinsNduka1, noted, "Muslim clerics also took sides." Others like @Mozzay_Trey and @Tony4PBAT responded with brief remarks, showing mixed engagement.
Cardinal Onaiyekan's Previous Statements
Cardinal Onaiyekan has been an outspoken commentator on Nigerian governance, frequently addressing issues such as insecurity and economic hardship under the current administration. He recently raised concerns about how public perception of a guaranteed APC victory could dampen voter participation in the 2027 elections. The Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja linked low voter turnout in recent elections to deep distrust in the electoral system and renewed his call for reforms at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), arguing that the current appointment process for its leadership threatens the body's independence.
Atiku's Condemnation of Presidency's Attack
In a related development, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the Presidency for attacking Cardinal Onaiyekan after the cleric spoke to the press about his meeting with President Tinubu. Atiku's aide, Phrank Shaibu, issued a statement on August 2, 2026, describing the Presidency's language as unbecoming of a government. Atiku urged the Presidency to apologize to the Catholic Church and to address the substance of the bishops' message rather than attack the messengers.
