By Paul Joseph
Former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani has defended the Catholic Bishops in the wake of criticism over recent remarks by Cardinal John Onaiyekan, insisting that the clerics have a long-standing tradition of speaking truth to those in authority, irrespective of the government in power.
The controversy followed comments by Onaiyekan during an interview in which he said the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) had informed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that the country’s economic hardship was weighing heavily on poor Nigerians. The cleric also expressed concern that the President might not be receiving accurate information about conditions across the country and warned that his determination to secure victory in the 2027 general election had raised questions about the credibility of the electoral process.
Reacting to the interview, the President’s Special Adviser on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, dismissed the comments as politically motivated. He argued that Onaiyekan’s views did not represent all Christians, describing the cleric as “more political than spiritual.”
Responding to the criticism, Shehu Sani maintained that the Catholic Bishops have consistently challenged governments, from the era of military rule through Nigeria’s democratic administrations, without regard for political affiliation.
According to the former lawmaker, the bishops have earned a reputation for courageously confronting leaders with uncomfortable truths rather than acting as political actors. He added that their long-standing tradition of presenting presidents with bitter kola, instead of olive oil, symbolises honesty, sincerity and a willingness to speak frankly to those in positions of authority.
Sani’s remarks have added another dimension to the debate surrounding the relationship between religious leaders and government, as reactions continue to trail Onaiyekan’s assessment of the country’s economic and political situation.
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