Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has defended Cardinal John Onaiyekan and members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) following comments made by President Bola Tinubu during a recent meeting with the clerics.
Atiku criticised the President’s remarks, saying religious leaders should not be treated as political supporters or expected to endorse government policies.
He described the Catholic bishops as independent voices with a responsibility to speak on issues affecting the country, including governance, insecurity and the economy.
The former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate said the role of the clergy is to hold leaders accountable and advocate for justice, rather than serve partisan interests.
Atiku urged political leaders to respect differing opinions and engage constructively with religious and civil society groups in addressing Nigeria’s challenges.
