Atiku Abubakar has criticized the federal government for its response to Catholic leaders, asserting that the Presidency is not an exclusive group where speech requires approval. In a statement issued through his spokesperson, Phrank Shaibu, the former presidential candidate insisted that President Bola Tinubu owes an immediate apology to Cardinal John Onaiyekan and the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria.
The tension follows a visit by the bishops to the Presidential Villa, where Cardinal Onaiyekan relayed concerns regarding national security and the economy. The Archbishop noted that President Tinubu disagreed with their assessment, maintaining that his administration is moving in the right direction. Shaibu argued that the government mistakenly viewed the clergy as political tools, whereas Catholic bishops maintain a moral duty to provide honest feedback.
According to the statement, attacking religious leaders for highlighting the economic struggles of Nigerians—such as rising unemployment and the cost-of-living crisis—is a sign of insecurity. Rather than focusing on silencing critics, the administration should address the actual grievances of the populace. The statement concluded that the disparaging remarks against the Catholic Church constitute an insult to a significant moral institution, and failing to apologize only confirms an atmosphere of intolerance within the current government.
