Peter Obi has criticised the Presidency’s response to recent comments by Catholic bishops, warning that Nigeria risks becoming increasingly intolerant of truth and constructive criticism.
Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, Peter Obi, has criticised the Tinubu administration over what he described as attacks on Catholic bishops.
Obi accused the government of becoming increasingly intolerant of criticism and said the country must protect the space for truth, accountability and constructive engagement.
His comments came amid a growing public disagreement between the Presidency and Catholic leaders following a recent meeting between President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and representatives of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria.
Obi Defends Catholic Bishops
Obi said the Catholic bishops should not be attacked for speaking about the condition of the country.
His intervention followed criticism from government spokespersons after Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, raised concerns about Nigeria’s security and economic situation.
The former Anambra State governor described the bishops as voices that should be allowed to contribute to national discourse rather than being subjected to personal attacks.
Disagreement Between Presidency and Bishops
The dispute escalated after the Presidency criticised the conduct of Catholic bishops during their interaction with Tinubu.
The Presidency argued that the bishops were not the sole custodians of truth regarding the state of the nation.
The controversy has since expanded into a wider debate over criticism of government policy, religious leaders’ role in public affairs and the limits of political communication.
Obi Calls for Tolerance
Obi’s position is that a democratic government should be able to accommodate criticism, particularly when such criticism concerns issues affecting the lives and welfare of citizens.
His comments add another political voice to an increasingly heated debate over the relationship between the Tinubu administration and sections of the Catholic leadership.