Kalu: Bishops Gave Tinubu Honest Assessment, Politicians Can Lie

Former Abia State Governor and Senate Chief Whip, Orji Uzor Kalu, has defended the recent remarks by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), saying the clerics gave President Bola Tinubu an honest assessment of the country's situation because, unlike politicians, they have no reason to tell lies. He urged the Presidency to view the bishops' observations as constructive criticism rather than an attack on the government.

Speaking during an interview, Kalu said religious leaders often interact closely with ordinary Nigerians and are therefore well placed to understand the challenges facing citizens. He noted that while politicians may sometimes present issues in ways that favour their interests, the bishops spoke from their conscience and their pastoral responsibility to the people.

The former governor maintained that President Tinubu should listen carefully to the concerns raised by the bishops, particularly on the economy, insecurity and the rising cost of living. According to him, accepting sincere advice from respected national figures would help the administration address pressing national challenges more effectively.

Kalu, however, expressed confidence in Tinubu's leadership, saying the President remains committed to implementing reforms aimed at repositioning the country's economy. He added that while the reforms may be difficult in the short term, the government must continue engaging Nigerians and responding to legitimate concerns raised by various stakeholders.

He called for greater collaboration between government, religious leaders and civil society organisations in finding lasting solutions to Nigeria's socio-economic challenges, stressing that national development requires honest dialogue rather than unnecessary confrontation.