Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has publicly stated that Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Archbishop Emeritus of the Catholic Diocese of Abuja, is actively supporting a specific candidate for the 2027 presidential race. Wike shared these views during a discussion with journalists in Abuja this past Tuesday.
According to the Minister, the Cardinal and various other religious figures aligned themselves with political interests during the 2023 elections and appear to be doing so again. Wike remarked that Onaiyekan’s preferences are not a secret. The Minister expressed concern that when religious leaders openly take sides, their public commentary loses its perceived objectivity and value.
These comments followed recent public scrutiny regarding Onaiyekan’s disclosure of details from a private meeting between President Bola Tinubu and the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria. Wike suggested that such actions demonstrate a clear partisan stance regarding the current administration and national affairs.
