Onaiyekan Defends Freedom of Speech Amid Criticism

Cardinal John Onaiyekan, the Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, asserted that at 82 years old, he cannot be embarrassed or intimidated by criticism from the Federal Government regarding his remarks following a meeting with President Bola Tinubu. He clarified that his appearance on television was to communicate the collective concerns of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, not to appease the government.

Onaiyekan emphasized the importance of freedom of speech in Nigeria, contrasting it with the restrictions faced by religious leaders in other African nations. He stated that his comments reflected the views of all bishops present at the meeting, which took place on July 28, and included concerns about economic hardship, insecurity, democracy, and religious freedom.

President Tinubu, however, disagreed with the bishops' concerns, asserting that the economy was improving and that the Independent National Electoral Commission was impartial.