Amaechi: Church Must Speak Truth to Power Amid Criticism

On Tuesday, Rotimi Amaechi, the vice presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), asserted that the church has a duty to speak truth to power, following comments made by John Cardinal Onaiyekan, the Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Diocese. Cardinal Onaiyekan expressed concerns that the current administration is focused on securing victory in the 2027 elections by any means necessary.

This statement drew criticism from the presidency and supporters of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). In response, Amaechi emphasized that the church's role is to voice concerns about electoral fairness, stating that the president should reassure the public rather than attack the clergyman.

He described the presidency's reaction as disrespectful to the church and noted that individuals who were children when Cardinal Onaiyekan began his ministry are now showing him disrespect.