RismadarVoice Reporters, August 5, 2026
The Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, has said the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) will not engage in a public exchange of words with the Presidency over its recent message on the state of the nation.
Cardinal Onaiyekan said the bishops had fulfilled their moral responsibility by speaking on issues affecting Nigerians and had no intention of exchanging insults or arguments with government officials.
According to him, the communiqué issued by the Catholic bishops was not intended as an attack on the government but was aimed at drawing attention to the country’s challenges and encouraging those in authority to take appropriate corrective measures.
He maintained that the Catholic Church would continue to pray for the nation and offer constructive advice whenever necessary, stressing that its interventions are guided by the public interest rather than political considerations.
The cleric also urged the Federal Government to concentrate on addressing insecurity, economic hardship and other pressing national challenges instead of reacting defensively to criticism.
Cardinal Onaiyekan reaffirmed the Church’s commitment to promoting peace, justice and good governance, insisting that its mission remains to speak the truth with love while working for the common good of all Nigerians.
