Chief Olabode George, the former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, has labeled John Cardinal Onaiyekan the “Desmond Tutu of Nigeria.” He encouraged the Cardinal to remain steadfast and ignore negative remarks from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and other government figures regarding his observations on national affairs.
George suggested that Onaiyekan should view the backlash as a reflection of the challenges once endured by the late Desmond Tutu. He criticized the government’s dismissive stance, arguing that the Cardinal speaks for all citizens regardless of their religious affiliation or lack thereof. According to George, labeling a respected leader as a partisan operative is misplaced.
Drawing a parallel to biblical history, George likened the current criticism to the crowd that chose Barabbas over Jesus. He insisted that the Cardinal should continue providing guidance for the nation’s improvement. George also warned that attacking an octogenarian religious leader, who holds a significant position within the Catholic Church, shows a lack of decorum and respect.
