The African Democratic Congress (ADC) vice-presidential candidate, Rotimi Amaechi, has criticised the Presidency for its response to comments made by Catholic Bishops after their recent meeting with President Bola Tinubu.
Amaechi said the government was mistaken to criticise or disparage the Bishops, describing them as respected figures whose opinions on national matters should be acknowledged and given proper consideration.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme on Tuesday night, the former Minister of Transportation expressed disappointment over the manner in which the Presidency reacted to the issues raised by the Catholic leaders following their meeting with the President.
He emphasised that Catholic Bishops occupy positions of great influence within the Church and society, adding that their voices carry significant weight because of the trust and respect they command among citizens.
Amaechi noted that many Bishops hold responsibilities that are comparable to those of government leaders, including state governors, due to their role in guiding and representing large communities.
“Looking at the Bishops of the Catholic Church and attacking them is a mistake. Most Bishops are comparable to governors of states,” he said.
The ADC leader argued that instead of engaging in a public dispute with the Bishops, the Presidency should have listened to their concerns and provided responses focused on addressing the issues they highlighted.
He stated that religious leaders have an important role in society, often drawing attention to matters affecting the lives of citizens, including economic hardship, insecurity, corruption, governance and national progress.
Amaechi maintained that the comments from the Bishops should be viewed as constructive observations aimed at improving the country rather than as criticism meant to undermine the government.
Speaking specifically about Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Amaechi said the cleric does not support any political party or individual, but remains focused on the challenges confronting Nigerians.
He explained that his previous conversations with the Cardinal showed that his concerns were centred on the suffering of citizens, rising poverty, corruption and what he described as failures in leadership.
“Cardinal Onaiyekan supports nobody. I have had several discussions with him. His concern is the level of hardship, corruption and the difficulties Nigerians are facing,” Amaechi said.
The former governor warned that attempts to pressure or intimidate respected religious figures would not solve the country’s problems, stressing that open dialogue and honest discussions are needed to move Nigeria forward.
Amaechi called on the government to embrace constructive criticism from religious leaders and other stakeholders, noting that such contributions can help promote accountability, good governance and national development.
