Atiku Faults Presidency Over Criticism of Catholic Bishops

Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has criticised the Presidency over its response to comments made by members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, calling for an apology to Cardinal John Onaiyekan and the Catholic Church.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described the Presidency’s reaction as inappropriate and said it reflected an unwillingness to accept opposing views.

He argued that rather than addressing the concerns raised by the Catholic bishops about the state of the nation, the government chose to attack respected religious leaders.

According to the former vice president, the Catholic Church has remained one of Nigeria’s long-standing moral voices, with its leaders consistently speaking on issues affecting ordinary citizens, regardless of which political party is in power.

Atiku said religious leaders have a responsibility to speak on national issues, especially when they affect the welfare of the people, and should not face criticism for expressing their views.

He also commended the Catholic bishops for openly discussing the country’s economic and political challenges, describing their intervention as part of their public responsibility.

The ADC presidential candidate urged other religious leaders across different faiths to continue speaking on issues of national interest whenever necessary.

Atiku also defended Cardinal John Onaiyekan’s decision to grant a media interview after the meeting with President Bola Tinubu, saying the cleric merely sought to present his understanding of the discussions following public reactions from government officials.

He accused the Presidency of attempting to shape public perception by presenting only parts of the engagement while questioning the credibility of the bishops.

According to him, such actions could weaken public confidence in institutions that have traditionally played important roles in promoting accountability and social justice.

The former vice president also expressed concern over what he described as a growing intolerance of criticism, warning that democracy requires citizens, civil society groups and religious organisations to freely express their opinions without fear of attacks.

He maintained that governments strengthen public trust by responding constructively to criticism instead of targeting those who express contrary views.

Atiku further stated that criticism of religious leaders would not change the economic and security challenges confronting Nigerians, including inflation, unemployment, poverty and the rising cost of living.

He argued that the concerns raised by the bishops reflected issues already being discussed by many Nigerians in their daily lives.

The former vice president called on the Presidency to issue an apology to Cardinal Onaiyekan, the Catholic Church and Catholic faithful across the country, saying such a step would help reduce tensions and demonstrate respect for independent voices in a democratic society.