FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has accused Cardinal John Onaiyekan of being partisan in his criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying the cleric’s comments should be viewed with caution.
Wike said he had no objection to religious leaders and elder statesmen criticising the government but argued that persistent criticism from those perceived to have taken political sides could undermine the credibility of their views.
“While I do not oppose comments from religious leaders and elder statesmen who criticise the government, when a particular section consistently voices such criticisms, the government must proceed with caution,” he said.
The minister said Cardinal Onaiyekan’s position on the Tinubu administration was well known.
“If you are a religious leader and it is perceived that you are taking a side— as is very clear in the case of Cardinal John Onaiyekan— it becomes difficult for people to regard those comments as constructive. I am aware of Cardinal Onaiyekan’s position; it is not hidden.”
Wike added that criticism alone should not define a person’s contribution to public affairs.
“You cannot make only criticism of an administration the centerpiece of your contribution to governance,” he said.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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