APC Chieftain Warns Against Attacks on Catholic Leaders

Jonathan Vatsa, an All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain and former Niger State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, cautioned that the ongoing attacks by presidential aides Daniel Bwala and Bayo Onanuga on leaders of the Catholic Church could jeopardize President Bola Tinubu’s chances for re-election in 2027. Vatsa criticized the aides for their unwarranted remarks directed at the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria and Cardinal John Onaiyekan, following the bishops' comments on poverty, hardship, and insecurity in Nigeria.

He stated that such attacks could deepen perceptions of the Tinubu administration's insensitivity towards Christian concerns, especially after the controversy surrounding the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket. Vatsa emphasized that the bishops were fulfilling their moral duty by addressing the worsening living conditions of Nigerians and urged the government to engage with the substance of their concerns rather than discrediting them.

He warned that continued disrespect towards Christian leaders could widen the trust deficit between the government and Christian communities.