FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has accused Cardinal John Onaiyekan, the Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, of being politically biased in his criticism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, claiming the cleric’s position was influenced by his support for Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi in the 2023 election.
Wike made the accusation during a media parley on Tuesday, arguing that public figures, especially religious leaders, should acknowledge government achievements alongside their criticisms to maintain credibility.
According to the minister, criticism becomes questionable when it appears one-sided. He said leaders should recognise areas where government policies have recorded progress instead of focusing only on perceived failures.
“If a religious leader is seen taking a side, it becomes difficult for people to see their comments as helpful. Onaiyekan’s political leanings in 2023 were not hidden,” Wike said.
The minister maintained that constructive criticism is necessary in a democracy but insisted that fairness requires acknowledging positive actions by those in power.
His comments followed Onaiyekan’s recent remarks after a meeting between Catholic bishops and President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, where the cleric expressed concerns over the government’s approach to the 2027 election.
In an interview with ARISE TV, Onaiyekan questioned the idea that “all is fair” in politics, warning against actions aimed solely at securing electoral victory.
The former Abuja archbishop alleged that the Tinubu administration appeared determined to win the next election “by all means,” adding that the government’s resources could affect the credibility of the electoral process.
Reacting to the remarks, Wike said Onaiyekan’s criticism lacked balance because, according to him, the cleric had not publicly acknowledged any achievements of the administration.
The presidency had also previously accused the Catholic leader of taking sides politically, particularly because of his perceived support for Peter Obi.