Presidency Critiques Bishops' Meeting with Tinubu

The Presidency, represented by aides Temitope Ajayi and Daniel Bwala, responded critically to Cardinal John Onaiyekan's comments regarding a meeting with President Bola Tinubu held on July 28 at the Presidential Villa. The clerics from the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria had raised concerns about worsening economic conditions, insecurity, and democracy in Nigeria, which Tinubu reportedly rejected, claiming his administration was making progress.

Onaiyekan emphasized that the bishops' statement was a collective position, carefully prepared after extensive deliberation, and not a personal opinion. He clarified that the bishops do not have political ambitions but felt a moral obligation to address the suffering of Nigerians.

The Presidency's reaction underscored that the bishops' assessment was only one perspective and subject to scrutiny.