Tinubu Disagreed With Catholic Bishops' Assessment of Economy, Insecurity – Onaiyekan

The Archbishop Emeritus of the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, has revealed that President Bola Tinubu disagreed with concerns raised by members of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) over the country's economy, insecurity and political climate during their recent meeting at the Presidential Villa. According to the cleric, the President insisted that his administration was making progress despite the bishops' assessment of the nation's challenges.

Speaking during an interview on Prime Time, a programme aired on Arise News, Onaiyekan said the bishops had a frank and honest discussion with the President, presenting what they described as the realities facing millions of Nigerians. He noted that the church leaders informed Tinubu that worsening economic hardship and insecurity were placing severe pressure on ordinary citizens, but the President maintained that the economy was performing well and that his government was on the right path.

"When the nation is bleeding, you cannot expect a polite meeting with the Head of State. We told him the economy is not helping our poor people; he told us the economy is doing fine. Frankly speaking, he told us quite clearly that he did not agree with us," Onaiyekan said. He added that the bishops did not expect the President to agree with every point they raised but considered it their responsibility to speak truthfully about the condition of the country.

The former Archbishop explained that the position presented to Tinubu reflected the collective view of the Catholic Bishops' Conference after extensive consultations across the country. He stressed that the bishops had no political ambitions but were motivated by their pastoral duty to speak on issues affecting the welfare of Nigerians. According to him, religious leaders have a responsibility not only to preach faith but also to advocate for justice, peace and improved living conditions.

Onaiyekan also expressed concern that too few people within government were willing to tell the President the truth about conditions in the country. He further defended the bishops' warning against the emergence of a one-party dominant state, arguing that Nigeria's democracy depends on credible elections, strong institutions and a level political playing field. He urged the government to prioritise addressing the country's economic and security challenges over celebrating its achievements.