By Abdul Yinusa | National News
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and the Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) have traded opposing views over recent comments by Archbishop Emeritus of the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, on the state of the nation under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Wike accused the Catholic cleric of lacking neutrality, arguing that his public remarks against the Federal Government reflected political bias rather than objective criticism.
Speaking during his monthly media briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, the FCT minister maintained that Cardinal Onaiyekan openly supported a political candidate during the 2023 general elections, making it difficult to regard his recent comments as impartial.
According to Wike, while public officials should remain open to criticism, government achievements should also be acknowledged.
“It is not every time you say things are bad. When government performs well in some areas, it deserves recognition, while shortcomings can also be pointed out,” he said.
The minister further questioned remarks attributed to the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), which allegedly raised concerns about the neutrality of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He argued that such claims should be backed by verifiable evidence, warning that sweeping statements from influential religious bodies could undermine public confidence in democratic institutions.
Northern youths defend Cardinal
Reacting to Wike’s remarks, the Northern Youth Council of Nigeria threw its weight behind Cardinal Onaiyekan, insisting that the cleric merely reflected the economic realities confronting millions of Nigerians.
In a statement signed by its National President, Isah Abubakar, the council described the Cardinal as a respected national figure whose comments on hardship, inflation and insecurity echoed the experiences of ordinary citizens.
The group urged public office holders to address the concerns raised by Nigerians instead of attacking individuals who speak out on national issues.
The council also encouraged religious and traditional leaders across the country to continue advocating justice, accountability and good governance.
Amaechi backs Catholic bishops
Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, also defended the Catholic Church, saying its leaders have every right to speak on issues affecting Nigerians.
Amaechi faulted criticism directed at the bishops following their meeting with President Tinubu, insisting that the Church has a moral obligation to draw attention to poverty, insecurity and governance challenges.
He rejected suggestions that Cardinal Onaiyekan was pursuing political interests, describing him as a cleric motivated by concern for the country’s welfare rather than partisan considerations.
Amaechi also urged the Federal Government to engage constructively with religious leaders instead of interpreting their interventions as political attacks.
Middle Belt Forum, Catholic Laity express solidarity
The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) also expressed support for Cardinal Onaiyekan and the Catholic Bishops’ Conference, saying the cleric merely highlighted the hardship and insecurity affecting many Nigerians.
The group urged the Federal Government to embrace constructive criticism and undertake an independent assessment of living conditions across the country, particularly in communities affected by terrorism and displacement.
Similarly, the Catholic Laity Council of Nigeria said Cardinal Onaiyekan’s comments were made out of genuine concern for Nigeria and should not be viewed as an attempt to embarrass the Presidency.
The council maintained that the Church has a responsibility to speak on issues relating to justice, security and the welfare of citizens, while calling for continued dialogue between the Federal Government and the Catholic Church in the interest of national unity.
