By Peace Erewunmi

The Presidency has responded to recent remarks by Cardinal John Onaiyekan, stating that the former Archbishop of Abuja was expressing his personal opinion and should not be seen as speaking on behalf of all Christians in Nigeria. The response followed the cleric’s criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration and comments on the political climate ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Presidential spokesman Daniel Bwala said Onaiyekan’s views did not represent the collective position of Christians across the country. He argued that the cardinal’s comments reflected an individual perspective and insisted that many Christians hold differing opinions about the Tinubu administration and national issues.

The Presidency also faulted Onaiyekan’s suggestion that the administration was determined to secure victory in the 2027 elections “by all means.” Bwala maintained that President Tinubu remains committed to democratic principles and would seek re-election through constitutional and lawful means.

Cardinal Onaiyekan had earlier said that members of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) presented concerns to the President on issues including the economy, insecurity and the country’s political direction during a recent meeting at the Presidential Villa. According to the cleric, the President disagreed with much of the bishops’ assessment of the country’s situation.

The exchange has generated public debate, with supporters and critics of the administration expressing differing opinions on the role of religious leaders in national discourse. Political observers note that discussions surrounding governance, security and the 2027 elections are likely to remain prominent as political activities intensify.